Advice From A Community Education Coordinator
When was the last time you had a tetanus shot? Are your child’s immunizations up to date? Can you recall the names and dosages of current or recent prescription medications? According to the Illinois Health Information Management Association (ILHIMA), knowing the answers to these simple questions can help you and your family receive more timely, safe and effective healthcare.
“It’s important for individuals to understand that they need to keep track of their own personal health information. You never know when you may need it, and when you do, it’s for very important reasons,” said Donna Young, community education coordinator for ILHIMA.
Young is a registered health information technician and currently manager of the health information department at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale. She is a member of ILHIMA and the Southern Illinois Health Information Management Association.
“Never assume that every doctor you might see will have access to all of your updated medical information such as current medications or allergies,” said Young.
In most cases, a complete record of your personal health information cannot be found in any single location or consistent format. Keeping a personal health record (PHR) allows you to provide doctors with valuable information that can help improve the quality of care you receive. It can also help reduce or eliminate duplicate tests and allow you to receive faster, safer treatment and care in an emergency.
“Most individuals have no experience in managing their personal health information and have no idea where to begin,” said Young, “that’s where ILHIMA can help.” The Illinois Health Information Management Association offers free public education seminars on managing your personal health information.
“As an advocate for this program, I am available to make presentations as a public service on behalf of the American Health Information Management Association representing the Illinois campaign. This is a new role for the future of health information and a part of laying the groundwork for regional health information organizations,” said Young.
Her power point program describes the importance of keeping a complete record of your personal health information. The audience receives a packet of forms to begin keeping their personal health record.
For more information or to schedule someone to speak to your community group or organization, please contact Young at 618-859-5581 or 618-549-0721 ext. 65447 or her e-mail address donna.young@sih.net.