"My Health Record" FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Why would anyone need to keep their own history? Don't our health care providers do that?
Our health care providers do keep our medical records, but for a limited time and only certain data. The time required for a health care provider to keep your health records on file is determined by each State. In most instances, the longest time a provider needs to maintain records is 10 years and in many instances some as little as 2 years.
How many immunizations and health tests are repeated each day at the discomfort of patients and the cost of insurance companies?
Health care providers have indicated that between 1-2 percent of every test ordered is duplicated due to the patient not remembering or the doctor not having the information available to them.
Is it true that millions of dollars could be saved by using My Health Record?
I believe that millions of dollars could be saved by using My Health Record. One way would be reducing the application of the tetanus shot. Let's say a tetanus shot costs approximately $30. Take one fourth of one percent of the population - (example only ) 685,050 and multiply that figure by $30. That is $20,551,500 - that's over TWENTY MILLION DOLLARS SAVINGS.
What health problem could any doctor misdiagnose without knowing a patient's health history?
Just about any health problem could be misdiagnosed without knowing the previous health history of the patient. Over 80% of a diagnosis is based on previous history.
What information can be found in My Health Record that would not normally show up in your health care providers' files?
Listed below is some of the information not normally found in your health care providers files.
daily symptoms
previous health care providers' diagnosis and treatments
current and previous specialists' diagnosis and treatments
previous health history not remembered; allergies not remembered
childhood diseases
family medical history, previous immunizations
travel related health concerns, dental and eye information
previous prescriptions, vitamins and supplements taken
previous surgeries and hospital stays not mentioned or recorded
various lab work results
employment related health issues
This list can go on and on... there is so much more information in My Health Record that you'll never find included in your health care providers' files or have access to that information.
I think I am like most people and have NO idea what shots I've had in the past and I don't know how long those are good for. How does My Health Record help us?
My Health Record is well designed to help ensure that up-to-date information is easily recorded and accessible.
How will previous medications I took many years ago affect me today?
Health care providers are realizing that knowing the types of medications you took previously will help in determining how to treat your health concern today.
For people who don't keep their own health records, what is the worst thing that could happen?
I believe this book will eventually save lives, money and provide peace of mind. You'll be able to sleep better at night knowing your health care information is in better order.
How can we possibly go back and get all of our old records to start My Health Record? What advice do you have to make this easier and more accurate?
Depending on age and health history, up-to-date information recorded in My Health Record will be different. We have provided a form in the book which helps you get copies of previous health records. However, if you are unable to obtain these copies, don't despair. Begin today using your book. You'll find that no matter what time you begin using My Health Record there are many benefits for you, your family and caregivers. Before recording the data in your book, It is recommend getting out a few sheets of paper and begin writing what you remember (if you don't have documentation). Keep an ongoing list for a few days to let your mind open up to the idea you want to remember your health history. After you have listed the information that you remember, record it in My Health Record.
Do I really need to carry this book everywhere I go?
It's up to you if you would like to travel with your book. The book has been designed to be portable and compact so that it can be easily kept with its owner. The book is invaluable when traveling or if you are in an accident.
Why is it so important to keep a health record for our kids?
Along with the many other benefits, one specific benefit for using My Health Recordfor children is because it contains a form that can be used as an authorized immunization record for school registration. It is also handy for college registration.
I know several people who do a lot of business travel, why is this book of particular interest to them?
Many people refrain from traveling because they are afraid to see a new doctor in an emergency due to the lack of knowledge they will have about them. Also there are travel related health issues that are important to know to help a health care provider make an accurate diagnosis.My Health Record is a great travel companion—it is specially designed to be compact and portable for ease of use.
How long do doctors keep health records on their patients?
Depending on the state, normally doctors are required to keep health records for ten years and as little as two years. Where is the information after ten years? Will your health records be there when you need them?
How can Americans take back control of their health?
NOW is the best time, whether you are compiling data in My Health Record for your new born baby, or you're recording previous data for an 80 year old woman or man. No matter what time of your life you begin this book, you will regain control of your health by becoming more proactive in knowing about your own body.