How to Share Prior Records with Your Clinician

Audience: all

Sharing your prior medical records with your clinician is an important step to get the best care, especially during telemedicine visits. These records include your past illnesses, treatments, medications, test results, and allergies. When your clinician has this information, they can understand your health history better and make safer, more accurate recommendations. This guide explains how to collect, organize, and share your records securely. It also covers what to prepare before your tele-visit and what to expect afterward. Remember, sharing your records helps your clinician provide care tailored to you, but it does not replace the need for in-person visits when necessary.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• If you experience sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, seek emergency in-person care immediately.
• If you have a high fever lasting more than 3 days or worsening symptoms despite treatment, contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• If you notice new confusion, weakness, or sudden vision changes, get urgent medical evaluation without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing and discussing prior medical records and history.
• Providing general health advice and medication management based on shared records.
• Coordinating care and referrals to specialists when needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment.
• Conducting emergency interventions or procedures.
• Diagnosing or treating conditions that require immediate in-person evaluation.

Why Sharing Prior Records Matters

Your medical records tell the story of your health. They include details about past illnesses, surgeries, medications, allergies, and test results. When you share these records with your clinician, it helps them understand your health better. This is especially important in telemedicine, where the clinician cannot examine you in person. Having your records can prevent mistakes, avoid repeated tests, and speed up diagnosis and treatment.

How to Collect Your Medical Records

You can get your records from your previous doctors, hospitals, or clinics. Many places offer electronic health records (EHRs) that you can download or request by email or mail. You may also have paper copies or personal notes. Ask for records that include your diagnoses, medications, lab results, imaging reports, and allergy information. Keep copies for yourself in a safe place.

Organizing and Sharing Your Records Safely

Organize your records by date or type (for example, medications, lab tests). Use clear labels and summaries if possible. When sharing records electronically, use secure methods such as encrypted email, patient portals, or secure file-sharing platforms recommended by your healthcare provider. Avoid sending sensitive information through unsecured channels like regular email or messaging apps. If you share paper copies, use trusted courier services or deliver them in person.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, gather your medical records and have them ready to share. Make a list of your current medications, allergies, and any questions you want to ask. Test your device and internet connection to avoid technical problems. Find a quiet, private space for your visit. Inform your clinician in advance if you plan to share records during the appointment.

What to Expect After Sharing Records

After your clinician reviews your records, they may update your care plan or request further tests. They might contact you for clarification or additional information. Keep your records updated and share new information as your health changes. Remember to follow the care instructions and schedule follow-up visits as recommended.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Collect copies of your recent medical records, including test results and medication lists.
• Organize records by date or type for easy reference.
• Ensure you have a device with a working camera and microphone for the tele-visit.
• Test your internet connection to avoid disruptions.
• Find a quiet, private space where you can speak openly during your appointment.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss with your clinician.
• Inform your clinician ahead of time if you plan to share records during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any new care plans or medication changes advised by your clinician.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments or tests.
• Keep your medical records updated with new information.
• Contact your clinician if you have questions or if symptoms change.
• Maintain a secure way to store and share your health information for future visits.

FAQs

How can I get my medical records if I don’t have them?

You can request your records from your previous healthcare providers, hospitals, or clinics. Many have patient portals where you can download your records. If not, you can contact their medical records department to ask for copies, which may be provided electronically or by mail.

Is it safe to share my medical records online?

Sharing records online can be safe if you use secure methods recommended by your healthcare provider, such as encrypted patient portals or secure file-sharing services. Avoid sending sensitive information through regular email or messaging apps that are not secure.

What if I don’t have all my past records?

It’s okay if you don’t have every record. Share what you can, such as recent test results or medication lists. Your clinician can work with the information available and may order new tests if needed.

Can I share records from different countries or languages?

Yes, you can share records from anywhere. If they are in a different language, it may help to provide a translation or summary in the language your clinician understands to ensure accurate interpretation.

Will sharing my records speed up my telemedicine visit?

Yes, having your records ready can help your clinician understand your health history quickly, reducing the need for repeated questions or tests. This can make your visit more efficient and focused on your current concerns.

Sources

1. Medical Records and Your Health Care — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Sharing Your Health Information — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. How to Prepare for Your Telehealth Appointment — Mayo Clinic: Patient Care and Health Information.
4. Patient Rights and Responsibilities — Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ).
5. Health Information Privacy — National Library of Medicine.

This guide provides general information about sharing medical records during telemedicine visits. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making decisions about your health care.