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Personal Health Records

A growing number of Minnesotans are using a Personal Health Record or PHR to monitor and take charge of their health. A PHR gives people the ability to collect�electronically or on paper�all their important health history in one place, so that a complete and accurate history and medication list is available to them when they need it. Links to prevention and other important health information is often included. Many people create a PHR for their children and aging parents as well.

MN e-Health Definition of PHR
The personal health record (PHR) is a universally available, lifelong resource of health or health related information needed by individuals to make health decisions. Individuals manage the information in the PHR, which comes from health care providers and the individual. The PHR is maintained in a secure and private environment, with the individual determining rights of access. The PHR is separate from and does not replace the medical record of any provider.

Consumer Benefits of PHRs
Consumers can personalize their health and health care by using a Personal Health Record. Some ways that a PHR can assist you in managing your health and health care:

You have convenient and secure access to personal health information, whenever it is needed to help you make health decisions.
You can ask good questions and make better healthcare decisions for your children, your elderly parent, and yourself based on personalized information.
You can record your health history and set reminders to help you monitor and take responsibility for your health.
You get test results quickly and can understand them.
You are aware of potential drug interactions with the medications you are taking.
You can use secure e-mail to ask your physician confidential health questions.
You keep tabs on the health information contained in your record and provide updates when needed.

PHRs in Minnesota
Some health plans and providers in Minnesota offer personal health record solutions for their patients. Please check with your health plan or provider to find out about the personal health record applications they offer. Below is a partial list of PHR solutions offered by health plans and providers in Minnesota*.

PHRs offered by Healthcare Providers

PHRs offered by Health Plans

PHRs offered by Employers
Many employers are beginning to offer personal health records. For example, �my HealthFolio� is offered by Carlson Companies. Check with your employer to see if they offer one.

Minnesota e-Health Initiative has adopted goals and principles for personal health records. For details, refer to
http://www.health.state.mn.us/e-health/

More consumer information on Personal Health Records can be found at:
myPHR
http://myphr.com/what/index.asp

* Links to external sites are provided for informational purposes only and neither MDH nor the MN e-Health Initiative endorses these products.