What medical records should I keep during cancer treatment?

Keeping good records helps you and your care team, and it does not have to be complicated. The National Cancer Institute suggests keeping copies of your treatment plans and results, and recording:

• the dates of each medical visit
• tests and procedures received, with their dates and results
• treatments received, with dates
• side effects and symptoms you have had, with dates
• any medicines prescribed
• other supportive or complementary care you received

You can keep these in a file folder or take photos and save them on your computer. A notebook, calendar, or app can also help you track details and questions. The most important thing is not which tool you use, but that you use one you will stick with, so your information stays organized and easy to find. A hospital social worker can help you set up a system that fits your life.