Medical Records

How important is it to get copies of your medical records?

How many of you have records?

Do you get them after EVERY visit or once a twice a year?

I wasn't sure if I should request them. I know that I have a right to see them I just haven't really requested any of them. (I do have records sent from one doc to another though, so they all know whats going on).

Thanks,
Kelly (Limboland)

[rumpled]

I usually get copies of my testing and I try to get that as it is done but I don't bother much with doctor's notes after having paid for some of it and seeing that it did not amount to a hill of beans and most of it was oddly, and sadly, wrong.

I have a very very complex medical history so I carry with me a piece of paper with my allergies on top, next all my medications listed so that they know what, why (1 med is given for many reason), how much, when, and who is giving it to me as I see a lot of doctors and after that the list of all my surgeries and I limited that to general anesthesia to keep it one page.

On my pc I keep a running doc of all my tests, doc appts. what happened etc. This came in very handy for disability even though I really did it to try to figure how what the heck was wrong with me. In folders by year I keep all the lab tests, other tests, MRI reports, surgical reports, pathology, etc. in case they are needed. I would love to put some of this on a scanner but too much.

I hope this helps.

[Csativa]

Hi Kelly,

It is really important for me to keep records because in addition to my GP, I have 11 other doctors I see regularly.  So I always get general notes, results of labs, radiology reports, CD's of MRI's, C-scans - in essence, anything and everything. It's not that I mistrust the doctors I see, but because there are so many, I really cannot rely on the fact that there will always be good communication between them.  

My GP always writes notes at the time of my visit with him; (it's a policy of that particular practice and wish all doctors did it.)  

I never ask if I could have them, I just let doctors, know up front that I expect all medical records.  I used to get quite a bit of grief, but in the past several years I have had no problems at all.  I think that attitudes have changed significantly.  The only problem I encounter is when I forget to ask for copies of records; which I no longer do.

Hope this helps

Frank

[HVAC]

I grew up as a Navy kid and I had one medical record I carried with me from birth until 18. I keep a folder of at least all my lab work and c/ds from every Doctor Primary and Specialist in a folder. This way I do not have to explain as much to Doctors. I also have it if I travel. My Primary gives me most Specialist notes with out charge.

Alex

[RedFlame]

I think its crucial to have copies of everything.  I have copies of

every blood test
all lab results like spinal fluid
other neuro tests

a running list of doctors names addresses etc.

a running list of all medications, who prescribed them and why

a running journal

each appointment is noted with and briefly described.

MRI, CT scans, xrays and their reports
I have dvd's of the mri's.

timeline of illness

Red