Studies show people who keep good personal health records enjoy better health. Researchers say it may be due to the fact the individual as well as their caregivers have a better understanding of their overall health. Moreover, quick access to a person’s medical history helps care providers make better informed decisions regarding needed care.
John Hopkins Medical explains a good way to start organizing your medical history is to write down the name and contact information of all your healthcare providers. Be sure to add what role they play in your care.
In terms of paper medical documents, they say paperwork older than a year can be filed away. Current records should be kept where they are easily accessible. These should include a family medical history of grandparents, parents, siblings and other pertinent relatives. Your personal history should include all current medical conditions and how they are being treated. Additionally, include past surgeries and procedures as well as hospitalizations and accidents. Doctor summaries and notes should also be in your file.
File copies of test results such as blood work, cholesterol, MRIs, bone density scans, mammograms or prostate screenings. If a test is done regularly, keep copies of past results together to help you track changes from year to year.
Another important piece of information is a list of all medications and herbal supplements you take. The John Hopkins’s article suggests using the pharmacy’s printout from each of your prescriptions as it contains the name, date and dosage of the medication.
Insurance forms should be included in your records. Legal documents like a living will and medical power of attorney should be kept with your medical records. Lastly, if you are part of a large hospital system, be sure to activate your personal medical chart as it will have information of test results, upcoming appointments, doctors’ notes and more.
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Source: hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/medical-records-getting-organized
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