What best describes the primary use of cross-reference filing?

The primary use of cross-reference filing is to identify the location of a file. Cross-referencing is a method employed to ensure that files can be easily located, even if they are stored under different categories or systems. This technique allows for multiple access points to a single document, facilitating retrieval when it's needed, regardless of how the primary filing system is organized.

For instance, if a patient's file is categorized under their last name, but also needs to be cross-referenced under a specific procedure or diagnosis for ease of access, a cross-reference system allows users to find the file using various identifiers. This is particularly useful in complex filing environments common in health administration, where multiple criteria may apply to the organization of documents.

By effectively implementing cross-referencing, administrators can enhance the efficiency of information retrieval and ensure that critical documents are accessible without needing to sift through potentially extensive filing systems based on a single organizing principle.