(Sources: Sharecare and Mayo Clinic)
Should I Make Copies of My Personal Health Record?
After seeing how important a personal health record can be, you may be wondering if you need to make copies of it. Remember, this document contains confidential information that you may not want other people to have access to. However, it would likely be wise to give a copy to an individual you trust in case something happens, and you do not have access to it.
The person you choose is completely up to you. However, you should have them listed as an emergency contact somewhere. Medical professionals can contact them if you are unable to do so yourself.
Do You Have to be a Certain Age to Keep a Health Record?
Keeping personal health records is not only something older individuals and those who have a host of health issues should do. Personal health records are useful documents to have for any age.
The purpose of a personal health record is to ensure that your health information is readily available when needed. This is where a personal health record can be of assistance, not only for yourself but for your children and spouse as well. Personal health records can be incredibly handy for families with multiple kids that have to keep track of many different records.
Final Thoughts
Keeping a personal health record is something that takes time to create; however, the benefit of having your medical information organized in one place could be extremely helpful. It is important to remember that you will not always have to access your medical information for an emergency.
If you are visiting a new physician, it could also be handy, as it takes time for medical records to transfer between doctors. It is also wise to have a health record when you are traveling to ensure you are prepared in the event of an emergency.
