Keep all your health information in one place, like a binder or a folder.
This will help you:
Give your doctors and other providers information about your health.
Keep track of your test results, illnesses, care, and progress.
Take your medicine correctly.
Find and read instructions again.
Keep track of your health insurance and costs.
Always keep your health records in a safe place.
In your records, include:
Your name, address, phone numbers, and birth date.
Names and phone numbers for all of your doctors.
Names and phone numbers of who to call in case of an emergency.
Your height, weight, blood type, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, allergies, and immunizations.
Lists and dates of diagnoses, significant illnesses, accidents, and surgeries.
Results from your physical exams and tests.
A list of the medicines you take, their doses, and how often you take each one.
Your health insurance information (current and past).
Explanation of Benefits (“EOB”) statements from your insurance company.
You have a right to get a copyof your medical records
You can get a copy of your medical record. Many offices give you one free copy a year. But if you have to pay, ask them if you can pay less or get a free copy.
If the doctor wants to charge too much or you need help getting your records, get a lawyer. Call:
In Washington, DC: Legal Aid Society of DC, 202-628-1161
In Maryland: Maryland Legal Aid Bureau, 888-215-5316
In Northern Virginia: Legal Services of Northern Virginia, 703-778-680.
