Take Charge of Your Health: The Power of a Personal Health Record
By Ailene Gerhardt, MA, BCPA, CSA®, Founder, Beacon Patient Solutions LLC & Navigating Solo Network
Host, The Navigating Solo™ Podcast
Technology continues to play a pivotal role in fostering connection and support, even as the challenges of the pandemic have receded into the past. Whether through online video chats, virtual meetings, streaming educational and entertainment content, or social network groups organizing community efforts, digital tools remain vital in helping us navigate the complexities of modern life.
As we balance responsibilities and adapt to evolving routines, it’s more important than ever to prioritize preparedness—particularly when it comes to your health. A key step in this process is creating, reviewing, and updating your Personal Health Record (PHR).
What Is a Personal Health Record?
Unlike electronic health records maintained by healthcare providers or pharmacies, a personal health record is a comprehensive document that you compile. It consolidates critical health information in one place, giving you—and those who may need to advocate for you—immediate access to potentially lifesaving details in an emergency.
Whether your current Personal Health Record (PHR) is a binder, a file folder, a digital document, or an online tool, now is a great time to ensure it’s up-to-date. If you’ve been meaning to start one but haven’t yet, there’s no better time to begin!
Why Is a Personal Health Record Important?
According to the Mayo Clinic, having a personal health record offers numerous benefits, including:
Improved patient engagement
Better access to health information
Streamlined management of data from multiple providers
Enhanced communication with healthcare providers
The ability to manage family healthcare more effectively
What Should You Include in Your Personal Health Record?
Here’s a helpful checklist to get started or ensure your existing record is comprehensive:
Basic Information:
Full name, blood type, emergency contact details (name, relationship, phone number).
Insurance Information:
Copies of insurance cards, Medicare/Medicaid cards, and supplemental insurance information.
Medical Summary:
An up-to-date list of healthcare providers (primary care, specialists, therapists) with contact information.
A detailed list of current medications (name, dosage, and frequency), vitamins, and supplements.
Known allergies.
Family medical history.
Immunization records with dates.
Information about chronic conditions or diseases.
Dates and results of significant tests or screenings.
Hospitalization records.
Detailed surgical or procedural history, with dates.
Summaries from recent medical appointments.
Tips for Staying Organized
Regularly review and update your PHR, especially after changes to medications, treatments, or healthcare providers.
Ensure your loved ones or trusted advocates know where to access your PHR in case of an emergency.
Consider using a secure digital platform to store and organize your documents for easier access and sharing.
Make Healthcare Management Easier with Our Tools
Empower yourself and take charge of your healthcare with our essential tools. Each product is designed to help you stay organized, informed, and prepared for any medical situation:
The Empowered Patient My Health Information Organizer: A comprehensive guide with practical record-keeping forms to help you track and manage your health information efficiently.
The Empowered Patient Essentials Fridge and Wallet Cards: Compact tools to ensure your vital health details are always accessible, whether at home or on the go.
The Empowered Patient Essentials Bundle includes both the My Health Information eBook and the Empowered Patient Essentials Fridge and Wallet Cards. This comprehensive kit helps you stay organized and prepared for any healthcare situation.
These resources make navigating your healthcare simpler and more efficient, offering peace of mind when it matters most.
Need Help Getting Started?
Organizing your health documents can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. I can help you create and maintain a Healthcare Advocacy PLAN tailored to your needs. This service includes assistance with your personal health record and more—ensuring your goals, priorities, and vital documents are well-organized and accessible.
Having a Healthcare Advocacy PLAN provides peace of mind, knowing that your healthcare concerns, values, and wishes are documented and ready to be acted upon. As a dynamic resource, your PLAN can be updated as your circumstances change.
Ready to Take Control of Your Health Information?
Contact me today to start working together on your Healthcare Advocacy PLAN. Let’s ensure you’re prepared for whatever comes your way with a personalized, organized approach to managing your healthcare.
Don’t wait until a healthcare emergency arises—empower yourself now with a well-prepared and accessible personal health record.
Connect With Us: When the complexity of your healthcare situation is too challenging to navigate on your own, working with an independent board certified patient advocate can help cut through the “red tape,” reduce complications, and offer peace of mind at an emotional time. Contact Ailene to learn more about the value of working with a private patient advocate.