It’s estimated that 440,000 people lose their lives to medical errors on a yearly basis. The causes of these errors are almost always preventable and touch on many areas of healthcare. Errors commonly result from missed diagnoses, communication issues, faulty medical devices, and inaccurate patient records.
It’s ultimately up to doctors and specialists to ensure that patients receive sufficient care and that their medical records are updated as needed. However, patients can take a proactive role in their wellness by getting acquainted with their own healthcare histories.
While medical professionals undergo years of education and training to ensure they serve patients to the best of their ability, mistakes can still happen. That’s why patients must be empowered to play a role in managing their own healthcare needs.
For instance, your record will need to be updated when you receive a new medication or are prescribed a new treatment. If this information is not added to your record, future medical care will be diminished. By the same token, medications you no longer need must be removed from your record to prevent possible complications.
Contact your primary care physician as soon as possible to discuss the matter. They can provide further insight and help update your record by adding new prescriptions or removing outdated ones. In general, you should review your healthcare history after being prescribed a new medication, undergoing a new procedure, or visiting a new doctor.
Having easy access to your medical history is crucial to regularly check your record and identify potential issues. The DrOwl app provides a secure and convenient way to store your records and easily share them with others.
You can access information from any mobile device. You can also add new information as needed, such as when you receive a new prescription or cease taking a certain medication. You can even share your records with others, including medical professionals and caregivers.
