Many people associate electronic health records with healthcare providers. In fact, personal health records should be organized and consolidated as well. Many people don't realize that having thir personal health records available in an emergency can be lifesaving.
Here are some of the main things to include when organizing your personal health records:
•Keep track of medical alerts
•Keep track of allergies
•Track medications and check for side effects and drug interactions
•Keep track of immunization history
•Store digital x-rays, videos, MRI’s and photos
•Keep doctor contact information organized and accessible
•Keep an updated list of Emergency Contacts
•Keep a record of diagnoses
•Keep a record of surgeries
•Coordinates family history
•Record doctor visits
•Can help prevent medical mistakes and duplicate testing
•Easy access to important health information
•Carry your family health records with you
•Create and access advanced directives including living wills
Whether you are relatively healthy or managing a chronic condition, you want to be actively involved in your healthcare experience. Read about the Minerva Health Manager and how it can help you organize your personal health records.
http://www.lotstolivefor.blogspot.com/2011/10/minerva-health-manager-software.html
Electronic Health Records kept at a provider's office are NOT the same as personal health records and do not take the place of tracking your own medical history. Provider records are usually not coordinated by different medical offices and you want to have a single coordinated history available when you visit a new physician, and most importantly, in case of an emergency.