In Instinct, timestamps are displayed using one of two timezone references depending on where you're viewing information: the practice's configured location timezone or the timezone of the device you're signed in from. Understanding which applies where helps you interpret times accurately—especially if you're working remotely or across multiple locations.
Which timezone appears where
Instinct uses the practice's location timezone for any content generated as a report or exported document:
Dashboards
Reports
Printed documents, including PDF invoices, prescriptions, and records exports
Instinct uses your device's local timezone for anything displayed live on screen:
Treatment sheet
Invoice (on screen)
Patient records (on screen)
Tip: A quick rule: anything generated as a report or document uses the practice's timezone. Anything live on screen uses your computer's timezone.
Why the same invoice may show different times in Instinct EMR
Because PDF invoices use the practice's timezone and the on-screen invoice uses your device's timezone, the same invoice can display different times depending on how you're viewing it.
For example, if a charge was added at 3:00 PM practice time and you're working from a timezone two hours behind, the on-screen invoice will show 1:00 PM while the PDF export shows 3:00 PM. The underlying event is the same—only the display differs.
Note: This difference only appears if your device is in a different timezone than the practice's configured location. Staff working on-site will typically see consistent times across both views.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change the time zone Instinct uses for my account?
The practice timezone is set in your practice's location configuration (done during onboarding by Instinct’s team) and applies to all reports and exported documents. Your device's time zone is controlled by your computer or browser's system settings.
Which timezone should I use for billing reconciliation?
Use PDF invoices or exported reports when reconciling, as these consistently reflect the practice's timezone regardless of where you're working from.
Still need help?
Contact support via live chat or email [email protected].