In our fragmented health care system, many people don’t have a central repository for medical information. Even your primary care provider may not have information as basic as your latest bloodwork results if another doctor ordered the test.
Maintaining an organized system for your medical records could help you get better care. When your doctors have a more complete picture of your health history, they may be able to provide more effective treatments—and skip ones that might be less effective or harmful.
What to Include:
The following details will help your providers get a more complete picture of your health.
- Identifying information: Give your name, date of birth, address and phone number to help avoid confusion between you and another patient.
- Current medications and supplements: List the name, dosage and frequency of all medications, vitamins and supplements you take.
- Medical history: Note past diagnoses, surgeries, immunizations and allergies.
- Family history: List conditions your parents and siblings have been diagnosed with.
- Doctor visit and hospital discharge summaries: Ask your provider for a summary after each visit.
- Test results: Keep reports on bloodwork, EKGs, MRIs, cancer screenings and other tests.
Where to Keep Your Medical Records
You may want to keep an electronic version of this information as a backup that you can easily update, but it’s a good idea to have a printed copy to easily share with your providers.
Note the date when your file was last updated so providers know how recent the information is. Try to update your file each time something changes.
You’re in Charge
By taking control of your medical records, you’ll be well-equipped to manage your health and make informed decisions with your doctor.
If you have any questions about your health insurance plan, don’t hesitate to reach out.