| The definition of a personal health record (PHR) is - An electronic, resource of health information needed by individuals to make healthcare decisions. Individuals own and manage the information in their PHR, which comes from you the patient and your healthcare providers. The PHR is maintained in a secure and private environment, with you, the patient determines the right of access. The PHR does not replace the legal record of any provider. Your personal health information is a valuable resource to you, your family, and the doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals who provide your treatment and care. But did you know that, in most cases, a complete record of all of your personal health information cannot be found in any single location or consistent format? Each one of your healthcare providers (family practitioner, allergist, OB-GYN, etc.) compiles a separate medical record on you. These multiple medical records can lead to an incomplete story about your health.
Keeping your own personal health record (PHR) allows you to provide doctors with valuable information that can help improve the quality of care you receive. A PHR can help reduce or eliminate duplicate tests and allow you to receive faster, safer treatment and care in an emergency. In short, a PHR helps you play a more active role in your healthcare.
The American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) offers you a web site (http://www.myphr.com/what/index.asp) with a step-by-step guide to creating a PHR. AHIMA does not make, sell, or endorse any PHR products, but they have compiled a list of PHR tools and services. You need to research your PHR options and decide which method is best for you. Learn More! |
