HHS HealthBeat (May 24, 2007)

The handoff

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

You count on your doctor to remember everything about your care. But doctors are human, and health care is complicated. So how can you help your doctor take care of you?

One way is by keeping track of handoffs. That’s when your care changes hands. Let’s say you’re referred to a specialist. Does the specialist know about your allergies? Or you’re discharged from a hospital. Do you remember what they said about how to take your new pills?

The director of HHS’ Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Dr. Carolyn Clancy:

"Be active in your own health care, which means you should take the initiative. Speak up. Don’t worry about being polite. Ask clinicians to write down any information that you’re going to need later." (11 seconds)

Get your test results. And if you need a family member to help, ask.

Learn more at hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: November, 12 2008