Our Medical Charts

Many hospitals and clinics provide their patients with online medical charts. These help me discuss so many things with my doctor at our appointments or even with my family at home. The best things are the test results. This is where the mischievous part of me comes out. When I hear my phone “ding” I rush over to check my blood results, x-rays, etc. in my online chart.

The only problem I have is trying to remember the password. Even changing the password to something simple can be a challenge. Why? It seems like everyone wants them changed more often. They want an upper and/or lower-case password with a number and often a symbol. I think I need a cheat sheet for that.

The race was on

At one appointment, one of the PA's came in and laughed. She knew that the race was on for me to read my online chart before she could get to me with the findings. A person needs to find humor wherever they are, especially in the clinic This is also a way to lighten the tension in the room or the concern that a person might be feeling. Actually, my husband can be a good comedian as well.

What can I see in my online chart?

Some things that can be found in my online chart include:

• My other health conditions
• Immunizations and vaccines
• Test results
• Appointments
• Telehealth options
• Billing summary
• List of medications
• Family history
• Messages
• Upcoming tests and procedures
• Billing
• …and more!

Do check it out, it’s very helpful. I also like the text messages and alarms to remind me of upcoming appointments or if there is a bill outstanding. Even I missed payment, I can find it there. Adjustments I can make and/or see include any changes in medications or family history/health. This saves everyone's time!

The importance of records

Because of my medical background caring for people in the back of an ambulance or as a nurse’s aide, I find it all fascinating. Records make a difference and are so important. It also helps, to see what is related to my COPD and what is for something else. Some doctors will post comments about the appointment on the chart.

I have had appointments with a pulmonologist who mentioned that he didn’t get records from the doctor who saw me previously. Thankfully, that doctor's comments were accessible in the chart which helped my pulmonologist better understand my case.

It has been so helpful for my other doctors to open the charts and see results from my blood work, current and past medications, as well as any other information included.

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