Taking Charge

Want to know a simple way to participate in your health care and help prevent one of the most common causes of medical error? Prepare a typed list of your medications INCLUDING those that are over the counter. Note how often you take it and who prescribes it. List your allergies. Keep it in your computer and update it from time to time. Always bring a new one to EVERY doctor appointment. Don't rely on your memory at the office visit or heaven forbid..someone elses. Leave a copy and insist it be placed in your chart. Note what medication you had a bad reaction to(if any)on the list so no one inadvertently gives it to you twice. Do you think people in your doctor's office are going to be more careful than even you are with your personal information?? Come on!!-take charge and see to it all your doctors know everything you take. All those pills are heading to the same place(your stomach). Let's hope someone is paying attention to what they all add up to when put together. That's why nephrologists are so fussy. They do pay attention to the big picture. In our office you must bring this list every time!! It all matters..even the vitamins. So come prepared to your visit. ..and like I mentioned... TYPE it..I cannot read my own handwriting let alone yours. You will be taking a huge step towards receiving good medicine.