I keep all the following information on my computer in one text document. I revisit it whenever I am going to a new doctor and add or make changes if necessary. It is a great tool to help me remember questions or information when I’m at the appointment, and many times I can skip filling out paperwork concerning my health history that would otherwise be tough on my arthritic hands.

Your personal health record should include the following information:

Patient Information

This information includes your name, address, phone number, and date of birth in addition to:

· Emergency contact information

· Current health insurance information (Group Number, ID Number, etc)

· Doctors you are currently seeing, and your reason for seeing them

· If you were referred by another doctor, the referring doctor’s name and contact information

Lifestyle

Record your lifestyle behaviors such as tobacco and alcohol use, exercise, and eating habits. Note any significant stress or sleep changes.

Current and Past Medications Record

Maintain an accurate record of your medications to help you save time and communicate more effectively with your healthcare provider. Be honest with your doctor about when and how you are taking your medications.

· Include the name of medication, current dosage, and frequency.

· Do you forget to take your medications?

· Are you or have you experienced any side effects? (ie. dizziness, nausea, fatigue)

· List alternative treatments you receive (chiropractic, massage, acupuncture, etc.)

· List all known allergies

Questions and concerns for the next visit

Leave a place for notes and questions that you may gather between visits. It is so easy for us to forget what we want to ask our doctors, or find words to explain an odd symptom or side effect when we only have a few minutes to speak with the doctor. If you have your questions listed along with he rest of your important information, you will not forget them and will use your time with the doctor more effectively.

Additional Information worth including

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The following information is good to have available to you for own reference, even if you are not bringing it to every doctor appointment.

Medical History
Record your allergies, immunizations, treatments, vital signs, laboratory test results, and preventive screening tests and results.

Family History
Store information about your immediate family medical history and their health risk factors.

Reports
Try to get copies of your personal health records from past doctors. If possible include test results x-rays, etc. If you can’t keep this information on a computer, store it in a folder in a safe place with your other important documents.

Although this might seem like a lot of information to gather, once you have it collected it will be easy to update. Try to make a habit of making notes or changes immediately following doctors appointments so you don’t find yourself trying to remember those questions you had for the doctor right before your appointment.

Having this information available is also good if you ever need to apply for disability or fill out insurance claims. Don’t rush, and don’t expect to have your personal health record completed in one session. If you take your time, and work at your own pace, you’ll certainly be rewarded the next time you are handed a clipboard, in an unfamiliar waiting room, and you are asked to provide the very same information you’ve prepared in advance.

Written by Christine Miserandino © 2008 Butyoudontlooksick.com