# Hermes file naming policy

Within the `Health-Agent` synchronized workspace:

- Every new file created by Hermes must begin with `HERMES_`.
- Example: `HERMES_blood-test-notes.md`.
- Files originally created by the client keep their existing names when Hermes edits them in place.
- Derived or reviewed copies must use `HERMES_<original-name>`.
- Never overwrite an existing `HERMES_` file during a name collision; add a UTC timestamp before the extension.
- Write incomplete output as a `.partial` file and atomically rename it to its final `HERMES_` name only after it is complete and validated.
- Do not rename files that arrive from OneDrive merely because they lack the prefix.
- If the source changed while Hermes was working, preserve both versions and publish the Hermes result as a new `HERMES_` conflict/review copy.