A personal health plan is a summary of an individual’s health status.
It includes:
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a physical exam,
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medical history and list of previous surgeries,
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patient-specific recommendations for preventive care and emergency care, and,
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contact information for the individual’s health care providers.
A personal health plan can help transfer information to a new doctor and avoid allergic reactions to medicines.
There are many other advantages to keeping a personal health summary. It is an excellent way for a young adult to better understand his/her own health and to become more actively involved in his or her own health care. When there is a communication barrier (linguistic, cultural, or disability-related), the personal health summary can be used to convey information that might not otherwise be relayed during a doctor visit.
There are seven steps to creating a personal health care plan:
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Contact past doctors and ask what health information you need for your personal health plan.
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Ask for an authorization form for release of medical records.
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Organize the papers chronologically
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Transfer electronic information to a stored device
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Bring the PHR to all health care visits
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Create and carry a card or medical alert bracelet or necklace
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The PHR is private information so remember to keep it confidential
