Care Book

Valuable lessons  I have learned dealing with chronic illnesses:

1.  Always make a list of questions you have for your doctor.  In such a short amount of time spent with him, you will more than likely forget something.
2.  Take notes, or have someone go with you to take notes.
3.  Keep track of all information
4.  Have doctors share information.  Make sure all tests are forwarded to all your doctors with a summary note.  This has helped stop duplicate testing.  

With my daughter I started a "Care Book".  In a 3 ring binder, I included the following information, and it goes with me to every appointment.  I have made another one for myself.

1.  Contact and insurance information.  This includes a list of all of doctors.
2. Medication chart.  This includes all medications, past and present, why they were stopped, the dates they were taken, and if there were any side effects.  You would be surprised what you forget after many years of different medications.
3.  Labs, Test, and Hospital Stays.  I keep all copies of  tests and lab results.  I keep record of all hospital stays and what occurred during them.
4.  Appointment Information.  This is where I keep all questions I have for the doctors, and what is discussed during each appointment.
5.  Correspondence.  This includes all letters to and from doctors and insurance companies.
 
I have a separate notebook that includes all medical bills and explanations of benefits from the insurance company.  

Having all of this in one concise place has helped tremendously in her and my care.