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Dr Ronald Baigrie,
Cardiologist and former Associate Professor of Medicine at the University
of Toronto
Dr. Baigrie's
background.
"Having worked closely with patients for over 20 years, I've seen many changes occur in our health care system, changes that have had a direct impact on the way patients receive care, the way health care professionals are able to respond to the needs of patients and the way decisions regarding health care are made."
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The gathering
of medical records
One of the key issues regarding our current health care system is the
gathering and sharing of medical records. We live in a time when most of
us often change doctors or call upon several health care professionals. On
the one hand, each health care professional you visit keeps records that
pertain to a specific medical event. On the other, no single health care
professional has access to your entire medical history.
Fragmentation
Over the course of your lifetime, you will probably consult dozens of
health care professionals. As you age, statistics indicate that your
number of visits to hospitals, clinics, emergency rooms... will likely
increase. And while health care facilities keep records on each of your
visits, it is important to understand that these remain fragmented and
incomplete.
Poor communication
The fact is that,
in today's health care environment, medical records are a series of
isolated, unrelated reports that only tell a very small part of a
patient's story. In addition, increased demands placed on the health care
system coupled with a growing shortage of health care professionals often
result in poor communication between individuals and institutions. And
that affects patients from all walks of life.
How to take charge
of your medical history
The Personal Health System TM
(PHS) was designed to help you take charge of your health care by allowing
you to keep accurate records regarding your health and any related
problems. By taking responsibility for your complete medical history, you
can provide health care professionals with the information they require to
make informed decisions regarding your health care.
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