This present invention comprises a training method for teaching health assessment of sick patients to health care providers. This training method utilizes a graphic display medium on printed charts, or in the case of computer software, three components: sequential assessment steps of the patient and care environment; color coded visual images representing bodily conditions; assessment questions of primary health complaints. The health care provider, by taking a mental snapshot, is equipped to make a systematic and focused health assessment of the patient and care environment that becomes a pattern of behavior each time the health care provider walks into the sick patient's room.