Your medical life, organized...

 
 I was once in a place called limboland.  Limboland for me was being sick and having no answers.  Deeply frustrated, I began my own quest for answers and found many shortcuts and tips for being successful in finding answers. 





Having your own medical file is one of the most important tools you can have, it really could one day save your life.  I also have to say be patient, getting your records is time consuming and it can really be exhausting.  One way to get them faster is when you are at a Dr's appt, sign a *Release of Information* form and have them either mail or fax your Dr's notes and labs once they come back from transcription.



Supplies needed:
Binder (I love the ones with the pockets)
Page Protectors
Folder for discs
Tabs to organize sections
Highlighters



Okay, the first thing you should have in your medical file is your personal information, name, birthdate, etc.  Next you should have your medication list, have the dosage, times, and route taken.  And always, always, have your allergies listed with your medication list.  If for some reason you are unable to speak, this could save your life.


My first section in my file are my labs, now you can organize anyway you like to but I suggest having them go present to past.   It seems Dr's are always wanting the latest information.  I have gotten into the habit of highlighting anything abnormal, it makes it easy on the eyes and less troublesome when looking for it! 


Next I have my Dr's notes, don't forget to add a tab at the top so if you need to flip to that section fast, it is right there.  I have these also going present to past.  I highlight any key findings or anything out of the norm here as well.



Lastly, I have my radiology and x-ray reports, I also highlight these sections if anything abnormal is found.


It is also a good idea to have spare paper, for those last minute questions you may have.