The article examines the concept of a medical record of a patient receiving medical care on an outpatient basis, its legal significance. The definition of a medical record has been formulated, which is proposed to be fixed normatively. The procedure for registration of a medical card is given. The prospects for the introduction of an electronic medical record, their advantages and disadvantages are analyzed. It is concluded that the electronic medical record is a central element in the pursuit of improving the quality of medical care and patient satisfaction. In this context, further study is needed on how the use of an electronic medical record affects the clinical workflow.