Your medical history is unique to you. It’s a narrative of your needs and your struggles. It shows what has worked for you in the past, and also highlights unique challenges and dangers that you might face. If you’re going to be working with a new doctor, it’s important that they have access to this information, both to help you stay as healthy as possible and to help you avoid dangers to your wellbeing.
Today, this is easier than ever because of the widespread usage of electronic health records (EHR). Most doctors in a region tend to share access to these records, but not all. Rather than just take for granted that this data will be easily accessible to your new doctor, ensure that measures are taken to have this information transferred safely and securely.
When you first meet with your new doctor, you will also want to have a brief discussion with him or her to make sure that they have read over your file and that any gaps are discovered. You can’t take it for granted that this information will just be given to them.
To be clear, the likelihood of medical mistakes occurring because of a lack of information are very rare. But they do happen from time to time. Even though the risk of this happening to you or someone you love is incredibly slim, it’s a mistake that never needs to happen if you ensure that there is good communication between past doctors and your current team. Proper access to medical files is a good way to ensure that this happens.
This is something that you can do before a visit to the hospital as well. If it is not an emergency visit, you should have enough time to gather up your medical records and bring them in with you. Yes, it does create an extra step for you, but it is one more safety measure that you can take to ensure that you or a loved one is receiving the very best care possible while in the hospital setting.
The important thing is that you and your family are receiving the care and attention that is deserved. Oftentimes, no changes will be necessary. You’re with the doctors and medical teams that you’re with now for a reason. But sometimes, for a variety of reasons, making a change is absolutely essential in order for you or someone else in your family to get the help that’s needed. I hope that you never find yourself in a situation where a doctor won’t listen or take your input into account, but if you do find yourself in this boat, hopefully this advice can help you to get what you need.
We’re here to help. Whether it’s getting pointed in the right direction on the senior care front or it’s some other aspect of care that you’re looking for, we can either help provide what you’re looking for, or get you pointed in the right direction. We offer free consultations and would love to talk more with you about what we do and how it will benefit your family. Call or email today to get started.
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