Your Doctors Should Talk: Sharing Leads to Better Health Results

Going to the doctor and staying on top of your health is important. Some people have routine check-ups and no need to see different doctors.

But if you have more than one condition and see more than one doctor, your doctors need to be able to share your health records. This will help them understand the full picture of your health. Knowing all of your health history, including what medicines you take, helps your doctors better plan your treatment.

Ask About Signing the Form

To give all of your doctors permission to speak to each other directly or share records, you’ll need to sign a “release of information” form with each provider. That way they can share information about your care and progress. This form allows you to fill in who is allowed to see your health records and how long they can have access.

Tell Your Doctors About Your Chronic Conditions

Sharing information between doctors is especially key if you have any chronic conditions. These conditions generally need ongoing care for at least a year and often require special medicine. Some examples are diabetes, high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, heart disease and cancer.

Because one health concern can affect another, all of your doctors should be aware of any ongoing treatments if you have more than one condition.

Mental and Physical Health Overlap

People who have a chronic disease are at a higher risk of having mental health problems and vice versa. Depression and anxiety are two examples. If you’re being treated for both physical and mental health concerns, be sure all of your doctors know.

A mental health symptom may make it hard to know that you have a physical problem. And some drugs used for mental health issues can affect you physically. To keep you safe and healthy, your doctors all need to know what medicines you’re taking.

Sharing Leads to Better Health Results

Bottom line, your doctors are your health team. Encourage them to share your health information. Ask providers for a release of information form. Be sure to discuss any questions about the form with them.

Remember, allowing your providers to share your records is caring about your health. With everyone on the same page, your doctors can help you get your best possible results.

Sources: Tips for Talking to a Health Care Provider About Mental Health,  National Institute of Mental Health; Working with More than One Doctor,  University of Michigan Medicine, 2024; Understanding the Link between Chronic Disease and Depression,  National Institute of Mental Health, 2024