A personal medical file is the primary tool for managing a mesothelioma case.
In cases of mesothelioma, personal records can become separated, needlessly duplicated or lost as patients consult with multiple doctors and receive treatment at multiple locations.
While each medical practice consulted during treatment will, of course, keep its own records, a personal medical file provides a secure backup of treatment records, prescriptions, and other data important in your case.
A personal medical file also allows the patient and caregivers to consolidate patient information in a single file, allowing patients to review their case independently and thereby exerting more control over their own case.
A personal medical record file should include:
- A complete medical history, including the dates and details of any previously diagnosed illnesses
- Records from past physical examinations and laboratory work
- Immunization records
- Contact information for all health care providers involved in the case
- Data on the patient’s mesothelioma case, including date of initial diagnosis, treatment schedules, etc.
- Copies of reports and tests, including laboratory results, X-rays, CT scans, etc.
- Surgical reports, details of chemotherapy treatments, and a record of sites and dosages treated by radiation
- Notes on complications, side effects and/or other results of treatment
- Information on pain management, hydration, nutritional support, etc.
- A complete list of all medications taken by the patient, including the name, dosage and frequency information on OTC drugs
Once a personal medical records file is compiled, it should be stored in a safe place, and an additional copy given to a loved one or otherwise kept offsite in case of emergency.
