GATHER.

• Create a separate medical file for each family member. The file should include a medical history, current medications, health status, and any information that would be important for health care professionals to know.
• Use a Colored Classification Folder as the medical file. Choose a different color for each person so you can find files quickly in an emergency.
• Contact all doctors and health care providers where you or a family member has received treatment. Ask for current and past information. Complete any authorization forms needed to release information.
• Collect health insurance information to include in the file. Make sure you have policy numbers, group plan numbers, coverage and copay information.

ORGANIZE.

• Label each file with the person’s name. Print a Viewables label with first and last name. Add a second line for birth date.
• Sort the medical information into groups, such as Health History, Prescriptions, Insurance, etc. Use the dividers and fasteners to keep the groups separated, and in chronological order. Place the most current pages on top. Include a summary page as the first page of each section.
• Consider a poly security envelope to hold x-rays, scans or other images.
• Keep the most important information at the front of the file; status of your current condition, provider contact information, medications and treatments, recent tests or procedures, insurance data.

UPDATE.

• When you visit a doctor, clinic or hospital, add any new information to the file. Update medications lists or health histories to keep all information current.
• Keep track of changes as they occur. Write down what your doctor tells you at each appointment and keep it in the file.
• Store the medical files in a safe but easily accessible place. Take the file with you in an emergency. Bring it with you when you travel and to your scheduled appointments.

1. Colored Classification Folders
2. Viewables® Color Labeling System
3. Poly Security Envelope