Keeping medical documents safe is vital for everyone, regardless of age. Many age-related medical conditions can cause your loved one to forget where they keep documents. It can affect the quality of care an individual gets, and can even lead to legal issues. The following tips will help your parents living in senior living facilities manage their medical documents.
- Keeping Vital Records
The volume of paperwork created by medical records for seniors can be overwhelming. The documents include lists of medications and notes from visits to physicians. It requires patience to keep the documents organized. Easy access to the records is vital for coordinated care.
- Organizing the Information
You can help your parents by keeping track of all the medical records and information. Gather everything in one place before you begin sorting through the records. Grouping everything by topics such as lab results, prescriptions and hospital stays will make it easy to stay organized.
- Keeping Physicians Notes
Every visit to the physician should be accompanied by notes. It is essential to keep the details that can be vital for future treatment or care. The notes include information on everything from diagnosis to treatments. They should include any negative effects from treatments.
- Making Copies of Documents
Having copies of all the documents can be handy in case of loss, misplacement, or accident. Make copies and keep them in a separate place from the originals. Include all the inserts, bills and identification cards or numbers. It also helps to have contact information for the physicians.
- Creating a Medical History
Use the medical documents to create a medical history for your parent. The records should track all health conditions, allergies, or surgeries. Include the family history and a list of medications your parent is taking or has taken. Remember to note the dose and duration.
- Storing the Documents
Make sure you assemble and store the medical documents to allow ease of use. Use a binder with different pockets for the various document types. Creating sections for each category will help to ensure quick and easy access to the information.
- Reviewing the File
After assembling the planner, review the contents, looking for any missing or outdated information. Going through the file with your parents is helpful as you can walk them through how to access any information they may need.
- Ensure Safe Storage
Seniors are often targeted by criminals for identity theft. Encourage your parent to store the medical documents, including all copies. Reduce the risk of becoming a target by keeping the documents safe in a lockable file or cabinet.
- Health Emergencies Documentation
Talk to your parents about keeping documentation that will help in case of a health crisis. Your parents will need documents indicating their wishes, in case they are too sick or incapacitated to make decisions. They should create advance directives to get the care they need.
- Ensure Prompt Updates
Obtain summary notes from each visit to the physician. Use them to keep the file updated, especially if a prescription is added or changed. It will help to ensure that the medical documents are updated regularly. Adding details as they change will help with organization.
