What medical records should I keep during cancer treatment?
Good records help you and your care team, and keeping them does not have to be hard. The National Cancer Institute suggests you keep copies of your treatment plans and results. It also suggests you write down:
- 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. You can also take photos and save them on your computer. A notebook, calendar, or app can help you track details and questions. Which tool you pick matters less than sticking with it. Choose one you will keep using, so your records stay easy to find. A hospital social worker can help you set up a system that fits your life.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Keeping Track of Your Cancer Medical Records
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