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Guide for patients and loved ones

My medical file

When all documents are in one place, a new doctor, an emergency department or a second opinion can help faster and more accurately.

Last updated: ~1 min read
A blue folder
Figure 1.A blue folder — My medical file

01Short answer

A medical file is your personal copy of your medical history. Sections: diagnosis (name, subtype, date, genetic results), treatment summary (protocol, cycles, dates), tests (blood, bone marrow, MRD), scans and reports, medicines and allergies, transfusions, vaccinations, discharge summaries and contact numbers. Keep a paper folder and photo copies on your phone. Add each new document after every appointment. When treatment ends, ask your doctor for a “treatment summary and follow-up plan”.

02Simple explanation

One folder, the whole story.

Update it after every appointment.

03Scientific explanation

A treatment summary and a plan for future check-ups are recommended for follow-up after treatment.

Genetic and molecular results (for example FISH or NGS) remain important for treatment decisions for many years.

04What happens in the body?

What to include

Diagnosis, treatment summary, tests, reports, medicines, allergies, transfusions, vaccinations and discharge summaries.

How to organise

Coloured sections, date order and a short summary on the front page.

A USB stick and folder
Figure 2.A USB stick and folder

Digital copy

Photos on your phone or in encrypted storage. Protect your personal data and do not post it publicly.

Binders on a shelf
Figure 3.Binders on a shelf — My medical file

05Building your file

Four steps.

Collect — All the papers.1CollectAll the papers.
Divide — Coloured sections.2DivideColoured sections.
Copy — Digitally.3CopyDigitally.
Update — After every appointment.4UpdateAfter every appointment.
SpeedA new doctor understands quickly.
AccuracyNothing gets lost.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
What to includeDiagnosis, treatment summary, tests, reports, medicines, allergies, transfusions, vaccinations and discharge summaries.
How to organiseColoured sections, date order and a short summary on the front page.
Digital copyPhotos on your phone or in encrypted storage. Protect your personal data and do not post it publicly.

07Key terms

Discharge summary
The summary given when you leave hospital.
Treatment summary
A short description of the treatment received.
Follow-up plan
The plan for future check-ups.

08Key points

  • Keep everything in one folder.
  • Divide it into sections.
  • Keep a digital copy.
  • Update it regularly.

09Frequently asked questions

Do I need to show originals?

Copies are usually enough; keep originals at home.

Is digital storage safe?

Protect it with a password or encryption.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Do I need to show originals?

  2. Is digital storage safe?

My questions

12Sources

  1. MedlinePlus (U.S. National Library of Medicine). How to Understand Your Lab Results
  2. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Survivorship: During and After Treatment
  3. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Diagnosis
  4. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Adjusting to Cancer
  5. World Health Organization (WHO). Sepsis — fact sheet
  6. National Cancer Institute (NCI). When Your Parent Has Cancer: A Guide for Teens
  7. National Cancer Institute (NCI). Caring for the Caregiver
  8. NCCN. NCCN Guidelines for Patients
  9. Cancer.Net (ASCO). Talking With Family and Friends
  10. NHS. High temperature (fever) in adults
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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