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How to use your health records.
How to use your health records.

Own it, use it, share it.

Jennifer avatar
Written by Jennifer
Updated over 3 years ago

It’s very common to get your health record for a specific use — like when you have a new primary care doctor or you need to share some test results with your care team. These are great reasons to get it. But it can also be empowering to have your records for your own use.

Your health record can help you understand, advocate for, and manage your own health care — it can make you an expert on you.

Explore these tips on how to make the best use of your health records. And keep in mind that it will be easier to share and manage your health information if you have an electronic copy of your health record.

Share your health record

Having your health record makes it easier for you to share it. Sharing your health information helps ensure that all of the doctors and caregivers you work with have the information they need to safely care for you, including:

  • Family members and caregivers

  • Doctors, specialists, and other providers

  • Emergency care teams

Stay on top of your health care

Having your health record can give you a complete picture of your health. You can:

  • Review your doctor’s notes, treatment plans, and test results to make sure you understand them — and prepare questions for the things you don’t understand

  • Keep track of your test results and chronic conditions — is your health improving?

  • Stay on top of yearly check-ups, vaccinations, and tests — for you and your family

  • Save time and money by not repeating tests and procedures you’ve already had

Use an app to manage your health information

You may have heard of apps that track things like fitness and calories. There are also health apps that help you manage your health record from your phone, tablet or computer.

What are the benefits of a secure health app?

  • It lets you access your health record from anywhere, at anytime

  • It can be more secure than paper or email, so you can have access to your health information while keeping it private

  • It can make it easier to keep your health records organized and up-to-date

  • It can make it easier and safer to share your health record with providers and caregivers

Some apps also let you:

  • Keep health records for family members or other people you care for

  • Store information about your medicines, allergies, health conditions, and emergency contacts

  • Track and set up reminders for medicines, tests, and appointments

  • Add notes and photos to your record, so you can remember questions and information for your doctor

  • Get detailed information about medicines you’re taking

  • Meet your health goals with a digital coach

What should I look for in a health app?

If you are looking for an app to help manage your health information, use this checklist. Make sure it:

  • Allows you to securely look at and store your health record

  • Allows you to securely download your health record from your provider’s online portal

  • Allows you to securely share your health record with a provider or caregiver

  • Specifically states that it won’t use, sell, or otherwise share your personal health information without your permission

Questions
If you have any questions or concerns please contact us via the "help button" in the bottom right hand corner of the screen or email us at support@onerecord.com.

Source: HealthIT.gov

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