Navigating our own healthcare needs at this time when the system is extremely stressed can be challenging. Many routine appointments are canceled, postponed, or rescheduled. However, there are healthcare needs related to the monitoring of chronic conditions or illnesses, or specific diagnoses that would not be beneficial to postpone or reschedule.

At this time when we are guided to “stay at home,” we find ourselves juggling responsibilities and filling time once occupied by out of the home activities, meetings, gatherings, etc.

Now is a good time to create, review, and update your Personal Health Record. Unlike your electronic health records stored on a portal for your different pharmacies and healthcare providers, a personal health record is a compilation of information about your health.

What should you include in your personal health record?

It is extremely important that adults 18 years of age and older have advance directives in place! While many people may have filled out legal documents regarding your estate plans, it is likely you haven't written out and reviewed with others the specifics of what you want and don't want regarding end of life care.

In my work, I always remind people that having these documents in place and discussed with those you care about and care about you, is actually a gift. It's a gift because

Effectively navigating today’s healthcare is often complex, stressful, and confusing.  As healthcare consumers, we make choices about our health every day. Learn strategies for effectively taking control of your healthcare.