Patient portals have evolved quite a bit over the last few years. Many portals now offer patients the opportunity to interact with the doctor in a way that hasn’t occurred since doctors stopped making home visits.

Tags   technology, physicians

Go Nomad advises planning ahead for your trip. Plan for the unexpected and routine medical concerns by creating a PHR.

Tags   personal health record phr, emergency, travel

PositiveID and the International Maritime Medical Association have partnered to bring PHR systems to over 1.5 million cruise ship passengers, crew, and port workers.

Tags   emergency, access, medical records, travelers

Being unprepared for medical emergencies is costly: medical evacuation to the US from a foreign country can cost $50,000. Even if you don’t have an extensive medication list or need medical attention while away from home, these tips from the US State Department provide a sense of security and let you truly enjoy your vacation.

Tags   emergency, medication, insurance, travel

“You should keep a record of each family member’s medical history at your fingertips, in the home,” says Michael Fleming, MD, former president of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). “It’s also a good idea to take your records with you when you travel.”

Tags   emergency, medical history, travel

After Joan Malling’s husband suffered a heart attack before a trip to France, the freelance writer and European traveler quickly learned the benefits of keeping a PHR. Whether taking an annual vacation or leaving town on business, an up-to-date, bilingual health record makes all aspects of a trip, from packing to traveling, hassle-free.

Tags   emergency, medication, medical records, travel

If you have a child with a health problem or condition, you’re well aware that a trip with the family has to include whatever medications might be needed. You know it’s important to tuck in emergency advice and the doctor’s name and contact numbers, as well.  One thing less commonly included, but should be, even for those with no apparent medical issues, is a travel version of your child’s Personal Health Record. 

Tags   emergency, medication, parents, insurance, travel

Cheryl McEvoy, editorial assistant for ADVANCE for Health Information Professionals, recently returned from a trip to Nicaragua. A fellow traveler and practicing nurse came along on the volunteer trip. Her medical arsenal included malaria pills, a first aid kit, and even eletrolyte powder. The most significant item in this nurse’s toolkit? A miniature personal health record that was portable and accessible in a place where Internet connectivity is rare and the nearest hospital hours away.

Tags   health information, personal health record phr, access, travel, electronic health record ehr

PHRs and EHRs both make traveling safer and stress-free. Deciding on a PHR or EHR system that’s right for you is a decision you should make long before your departure date.

Tags   access, privacy, security, travel

My Church held a fellowship dinner last night to kick off our 80th year celebration.

Tags   personal health records phr, health information, medication, travel

I love taking a drive in the Fall to see all the beautiful colors. Many years ago I traveled with my family to Vermont and New Hampshire to enjoy the Fall colors. It was spectacular! Every color was so vivid and everywhere I looked I was in awe.

Tags   personal health records phr, travel, emergency preparedness

So, you are probably wondering what type of PHR should you use when you travel. My best suggestion is to use what works for you.

Tags   personal health records phr, electronic health records ehr, travel

I spoke too soon!!! My last blog stated that my family has not had a need for our PHR as of yet while we are traveling. Well, that changed this summer and I was the one who needed it.

Tags   personal health records phr, health information, emergency, travel, vertigo

You might not think about taking along your personal health information on vacation. But could you remember everything about you and your family’s health if you needed medical attention while you were away from home?

Tags   personal health records phr, health information, travel