since I began seeing my llmd. Ho do I ask the office for copies without giving them the impression that I'm leaving the practice?
I used to keep records, because I knew something was up and I was constantly being referred to another "-ologist".
I stopped because I don't ever plan to go see anyone else. Also because I have so many papers and files and things and I hate clutter.
Maybe there's a bit of a psychological thing associated with it where I just want to keep it in his hands. (?)
Do you people all still request copies of all your test results as you treat with your llmds?
Posted by jkmom (Member # 14004) on :
Yes, I try to get copies of every test run.
Before I knew she had Lyme, I asked my daughter's PCP for her whole file for my records. When I tried to make another appointment for her, they thought she was no longer a patient but did take her back when I explained.
I would think an LLMD would be used to people wanting copies because most people that end up at an LLMD probably do their own research and have been to many doctors.
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- While you seem to trust your doctor, which is a nice luxury -- If anything happened to your doctor or his office - you could be without your records.
It's good to have a personal file for your own records to track your course but also, if anything happens to you and you can't speak or are unconscious, etc., there would be a file for whomever has your power of attorney.
Get a three ring binder, a 3-hole puncher - and put everything in binder right from the start. You can set up categories or an index in any way that works for you to find something fast.
And/or - your tests may all be on computer and your doctor could email them to you. They you have in in a file on your computer. Still good to have a hard copy for others in case of emergencies.
You could also get this little key ring thing that has a computer chip in it to store your medical history for use by EMTs or doctors in the E.R. I have no idea what that is called but it's a very good idea to have on your key ring. -
Posted by METALLlC BLUE (Member # 6628) on :
Always keep records, especially for when you see another specialist for care besides Lyme, such as G.I. issues, or treatment that your LLMD can't provide.
You can simply tell them that, and it helps you to stay informed about what you've done and how you've progressed.
Posted by carly (Member # 14810) on :
This solves the mystery as to how everyone else seems to know their test results
Keebler, I like the idea of the flash drive (or memory stick).
That solves two problems. I'll have records, but not a whole mess of paperwork.
Posted by Alana (Member # 14077) on :
Carly, everyone here has made good points.
You are ENTITLED to your medical records. All you need to tell the doc's office is that you want copies of your records for your own files. This should not be construed negatively by the doc or his office.
If the doc/office gets their backs up when you request your records, it would be unusual, as it is customary for patients, especially those suffering from chronic conditions to make these kinds of requests.
If you feel you need to justify your request, you can simply state that you are in the process of organizing your medical records. No one should even question this.
Should your doc's office assume that your request implies that you are leaving the practice, you can state that this is not the case, and say something to the effect that you are simply trying to organize your own medical data.
And FYI, as pointed out, you might very well have to see someone else in the future although you have no plans to do so at the moment.
I hate clutter too, but medical records are necessary clutter.
It would be great if we were able to keep things in our doc's hands. Unfortunately, this is wishful thinking, and we all must maintain our own records....clutter and all.
Posted by carly (Member # 14810) on :
I guess I never thought about what you've all pointed out, that another dr. might need this information and that I may or may not be in the condition to provide it.
I mean, I recognize that it's possible, but "not to me" .
Thanks for all your input jk, mb, keebler and alana. It makes sense that it's a common request from llmds.
Such a simple thing... I'll get it done by my next visit, and keep this info on a flash drive.
Posted by OptiMisTick (Member # 399) on :
[ 05-04-2010, 01:51 AM: Message edited by: OptiMisTick ]
Posted by ladycakes (Member # 12619) on :
I've never had a doctor question me requesting copies, and I've been to a LOT of doctors.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
My LLMD ALWAYS mailed a copy of test results to me... no wait .. he mailed ME the original!
Optimistick.. has a great idea there!
Posted by farraday (Member # 21494) on :
I keep copies of everything I can get. The doctors are very willing to make copies for me...sometimes there is a small charge because my records are so huge.
I keep them filed by doctor and then keep tests in order as well as I can. My current records I keep in a special blue folder that always goes with me to the doctor. I write out my current symptoms and situation and a complete list of meds and supplements, dosages, etc. I take notes (or my husband does) and we file that, too.
I love the idea of a flash drive. I carry my meds list and doctors names in my purse. But a flash drive would be great.
My husband is cared for by the VA. It is very good care in our area and every single test and record is on a central computer so that all his doctors are on the same page. It really works well.
I wish we could get such a system for all doctors. It would also help them with their miserable billing and insurance issues.
Posted by carly (Member # 14810) on :
ladycakes, I guess I had a different experience than you. About 20 years ago I asked for a copy of my chart, tests, etc from a doctors office and the staff got so defensive and downright rude over it.
He was a good doctor. I had been seeing him for a few years. I was a good patient. I didn't plan on leaving.
I was charged per page, and there were blank pages included in my packet. I think they also included some billing pages.
My chart must have been flagged or something, because I was treated very differently by the staff after that- not by the doctor, though.
They were rude when confirming my appointments or scheduling. I never broke an appointment. I was always on time. I always paid my bill. The only thing I did was ask for my records.
I ended up changing doctors within a couple of years because of it.
That's why I'm afraid to offend anybody. I really love my llmd and his staff.
tutu- I will also ask if there's a form I can sign to receive results of future tests, without having to ask each time. There must be such a form in NY state.
Optimistick- LOVE the idea of the SASE! That's just my style, too.
farraday- I will be able to say the same thing before too long.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
carly... I would begin by speaking to your dr and ask if he wouldn't mind sending you a copy of all test results... ( or if he has it right then, if he would ask his staff to make you a copy )
I don't see any reason why he would deny you that.
Now I know it costs money to mail out stuff... but hey... he has a BUSINESS. You could offer to pay upfront for the postage if you had to.
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