Creating a Personalized Health Care Binder
All about Me
An “All About My Health” binder is a helpful tool to organize your most pertinent health care information into one convenient place. Consider bringing this binder to your appointments. This will not only make it easier for you to keep your records straight, but it will be indispensable to family members if you become suddenly ill and are unable to speak for yourself.
Contents of your Health Binder can include:
Health Care Team and Contact Information
Family and Emergency Contact information
Insurance Information
Advance Directive/POLST, etc.
Family History
Genetic Testing
Personal Health History
Surgeries or medical conditions (past/present)
Medications
Screening reports
Questions and Answers
Fears
Diseases and Chronic illnesses
Dementia
Need for long term care
Others: _______________
Healthy Living Goals and Timeframes
Healthy Living Plan
Health Resources
If you are diagnosed with a serious condition, you may wish to organize a dedicated area (or new binder) to include all information related to that diagnosis including:
Diagnosis
Treatment Care Plan
Preparation for Surgery or Procedures
Second Opinions
Questions or Primary Concerns
Important Recommendations and Communications from my Healthcare Team
Concurrent Treatments and Therapies
Testing Results: Lab Reports, Radiology Reports, Surgical Reports
Nutritional Suggestions or Guidelines
Medication List and Herbs or Supplement List
Side Effects and Timeframes
Changes in Physical and Emotional Health: sleep, strength, fatigue, pain, anxiety, fear, nutrition, appearance, social life…
Rehabilitation (Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy...)
Supportive Care Services
Integrative Therapies
Social Services
Appointments and Scheduling