The Importance of Giving an Accurate Medical History

Posted on December 18, 2015 by Shapiro Law Group

Our medical histories tell doctors a great deal about us, our families, and our medical future. Medical histories let doctors know the types of medications patients can take, which conditions they have or might develop, and how to treat existing health problems. In many ways, accurate histories help prevent medical mistakes. When doctors have incorrect information on patients, the consequences can be deadly.

Medical histories are very useful for identifying potential health conditions, which can help patients avoid diagnostic errors. For example, family medical histories can identify people likely to develop heart disease, stroke and certain cancers. This information can help doctors avoid misdiagnosing patients when they may actually have more serious health conditions.

Patients with detailed medical histories may have a higher level of care. According to the National Institutes of Health, patients who are suspected of having a high risk of developing certain health conditions are likely to receive the correct diagnostic tests. For example, people who have a high risk of developing certain types of cancers may be put on a specific diet and screened annually.

Medical histories will have drug allergy information that can help doctors and pharmacies avoid giving patients harmful medications.

How Can Families Create Accurate Medical Histories?

To keep patients safe and give families a better understanding of their medical histories, the U.S. Surgeon General released an online tool that can help compile data. The Family Health Portrait can help families work together to develop a shared medical history using the internet. Information compiled on the website can be printed and brought to health care providers.

Tags: HealthcareNews

What Our Clients Say

“My dad lost his fingers on one hand due to malpractice after a successful surgery that did not involve fingers. For months we were told it was because of debris in his blood. It was not. Mr. Shapiro and his associates were relentless in getting the medical records until the "missing" page was sent. Then they had the hard and arduous job of finding a doctor willing to testify. An informative video and audio with the doctor's testimony was presented. Case closed. Because of their due diligence, a satisfactory settlement was reached. Mr. Shapiro's law firm worked hard, were extremely thorough, professional, and kept in constant communication throughout the whole stressful ordeal. Mr. Shapiro still remembers my parents and keeps in touch with my mom, even after 15 years have passed. That alone is impressive.”

Patti A.

“The Shapiro Law Group represented our daughter, family, and reputation in winning our daughters case that was due to a catastrophic injury. We interviewed many lawyers and felt Mr. Shapiro would ultimately do what was best for our family. Being involved in a lawsuit is very difficult, emotional, and exhausting. If it weren’t for the Shapiro Law Group fighting for our daughter and family, I don’t know where we would be now. They are very thorough, knowledgeable, and know what needs to be done. Lawsuits can take a very long time, and we knew that Shapiro Law Group would not give up. They did whatever was necessary to help our daughter. We can’t thank Mr. Shapiro enough for all he has done for so many! During a very difficult situation in our lives, the Shapiro Law Group went above and beyond in guiding our family in helping our daughter. We would highly recommend this firm. Thank you,”

Stephanie P.

“Attorney Richard Shapiro was able to provide me with very knowledgeable and competent legal expertise to resolve my case.”

D. Harrison