Why your personal medical history matters
Your medical history is more than just a list of past doctor visits; it is a comprehensive document that provides a complete picture of your health. Having an organized personal health record (PHR) ensures that you can communicate vital information quickly and accurately to any healthcare provider, whether in a routine check-up or an emergency. This can prevent medical errors, avoid adverse drug interactions, and help your doctors provide the most effective, personalized care possible [3].
Essential components to include in your personal medical history
Compiling your personal medical history can seem overwhelming, but it can be easily broken down into several key sections. By gathering and organizing information for each category, you can create a comprehensive record that will be invaluable for your long-term health management.
Basic and emergency information
Start with fundamental information for quick access in emergencies [3], including personal identifiers, emergency contacts, healthcare provider contacts, insurance information, and advance directives.
Current and past medical conditions
Documenting health issues helps identify patterns and risks [3], such as chronic and past major illnesses, as well as mental health history.
Medications, supplements, and allergies
This section is vital for preventing adverse reactions [3], covering current and past medications, medication details, and all known allergies.
Surgical and hospitalization history
Include information on any procedures or hospital stays, such as surgical procedures, hospitalizations, and past treatments.
Immunizations and preventive care
Keep immunization records current and track screenings [3]. This includes your immunization record and preventive screenings.
Family health history
Your family's health history can indicate your own potential risks [2.3]. The {Link: CDC website https://www.cdc.gov/family-health-history/about/index.html} offers resources for tracking this information [2]. This section should include a family tree, genetic risk factors, and causes of death for deceased relatives [2.3].
Social history and lifestyle factors
Your habits and environment are important for a holistic health assessment [3]. This includes lifestyle habits, exercise and diet information, and occupational exposure.
Comparison of PHR vs. EHR
Understanding the difference between a Personal Health Record (PHR) and an Electronic Health Record (EHR) is important [1.4]. They serve different purposes and are controlled by different parties [1].
| Feature | Personal Health Record (PHR) | Electronic Health Record (EHR) |
|---|---|---|
| Custodian | Patient or caregiver | Healthcare provider or facility |
| Purpose | To be carried and shared by the patient | For clinical documentation and billing |
| Content | Managed by the patient; may be incomplete | Managed by the provider; comprehensive for that provider's care |
| Format | Can be paper, digital, or app-based | Standardized software system |
| Portability | Highly portable, under patient control | Restricted by facility, may require formal request |
| Updates | Maintained by the patient | Updated by healthcare staff during visits |
A step-by-step guide to building your record
Building and maintaining a comprehensive personal medical history can be simplified with a plan [3]. You should choose a format, gather existing records, start with what you know, work backward, talk to family (using resources like the {Link: HHS website https://www.hhs.gov/familyhistory/} for a family health portrait [2.3]), and maintain and update regularly [3].
Conclusion
Creating and maintaining a personal medical history empowers you to be an active participant in your healthcare [1.3]. It provides you and your providers with crucial information to make informed decisions for your well-being [3]. Starting today will build a valuable resource for a lifetime.
