Accessing medical records - things to consider (2)

Reading your own medical records can be empowering and informative, but it can also come with certain emotional and practical risks. Here are some potential issues to be aware of:

1. Emotional Distress

- Unexpected or upsetting information: You might read about a diagnosis, comment, or observation that you weren't previously aware of, which can be distressing.

- Medical language: Technical terms or clinical notes can sound alarming or impersonal when taken out of context.

- Mental health impact: Reading about past trauma, complications, or concerns noted by clinicians may trigger anxiety, sadness, or even trauma especially for those with a history of difficult medical experiences.

2. Misinterpretation

Medical records are written for clinicians, not patients. Without medical training, you might:

- Misunderstand terminology or abbreviations

- Draw incorrect conclusions about your health

- Worry about issues that are actually routine or minor

3. Relationship Strain with Healthcare Providers

- If you find errors or negative language, it could affect your trust in your care team.

- You might feel judged or misrepresented by the way something was documented, even if it wasn't intended negatively.

4. Privacy Considerations

- If you download or print your records, there's a risk of accidental sharing or loss.

- Be careful where and how you store them to protect sensitive health information.

- If you ask for the records to be sent by email then they may be accessible to anyone with access to your email account or any shared device.

5. Legal or Insurance Implications

In rare cases, information in your records could be relevant to insurance claims, legal proceedings, or employment. The clinician would generally require your consent to disclose this information to a third party but you might have obligations to advise other organisations about medical issues.

How to Reduce the Risks

Seek support: If you are worried about what you might find, consider asking a GP, midwife, or therapist to go through the records with you.

Ask for explanations: Don't hesitate to request clarification about anything unclear or concerning.

Prepare emotionally: Be aware that some parts may be clinical, detached, or difficult to read.

Final Thought

Reading your records can give you greater understanding and control over your health but it is important to approach records with care. If you're emotionally vulnerable or dealing with complex health issues, consider getting support before diving in.