How to help communicate with doctors

[Guest guest]

Make these summaries and keep on you. Make a copy or copies to give

out when you visit new doctors or when asked what medications you are on.

On an index card:

SIDE ONE

1. list your name and phone number

2. emergency contact

3. doctors name and phone number

4. condition(s)/diagnosis

5. surgeries/other pertinent medical information

SIDE 2

make a list of all medications and dosages you are currently on.

On another sheet of paper:

1. list same information on index card PLUS

2. all doctors you currently see

3. history of illness (when it began, serious flares, etc...)

4. list of tests done and results (I got these from my neurologist)

5. any other medical issues you are dealing with other than primary

disease

These are VERY HELPFUL to doctors. It is quicker than trying to go

through a large medical file. My doctors were eager to help since they

realized how much it can help in an emergency. Make sure to keep it up

to date. I make everything on a computer so updates are quick and easy.