Q-What is a Medical Record?
A health record also called a medical record, is a written record of a person's medical history. It comprises medicines, procedures, examinations, immunizations, and notes from medical appointments.
Q- Why should I request copies of my Medical Records?
Following your cancer treatment, you could be referred to a new health care provider that is unfamiliar with your medical background. It's important to be able to describe your condition and treatment to your new doctor. Giving your provider copies of your medical records is one of the most effective ways to assist them in obtaining accurate information.
Medical records that are more than a few years old can be difficult to obtain, so it's better if you can collect this information during or shortly after your treatment. If you're not sure where to begin, talk with your cancer care team on how to obtain these reports.
Q- What types of Medical Records should I take?
We would advise you to have the following details on hand:
- Copies of all of the pathology report from biopsies and operations.
- Copies of imaging test results (CT or MRI scans, for example) that can be stored digitally on a DVD, etc.
- A copy of the surgical report if you had surgery (s).
- If you were admitted to the hospital, copies of the discharge summaries the doctor wrote after you were released.
- A list of the medications you take, their doses, and how long you took them if you received chemotherapy or other drug therapies (such as targeted medication, immunotherapy, or hormone therapy).
- A copy of your medical summary if you received radiation therapy
- Contact information for the health care providers who treated your cancer
Please watch the below video on "How to access your Medical Records"
References -
1. Keeping Copies of Important Medical Records. (n.d.). Www.cancer.org. Retrieved March 11, 2021, from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/survivorship-during-and-after-treatment/be-healthy-after-treatment/keeping-copies-of-important-medical-records.html