Should You Transfer Medical Records for Shoulder Pain Evaluation? - Orthopedics

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When considering whether to transfer medical records for a shoulder pain evaluation, it's essential to understand the importance of continuity in medical care and the value of previous diagnostic information. In your case, your family member, a 70-year-old woman, has been experiencing persistent shoulder pain despite evaluations and treatments at local orthopedic clinics. Given that the initial assessments did not reveal any significant issues, yet the pain persists, seeking a second opinion at a more specialized facility is a reasonable step.

Transferring medical records, including X-rays and any other relevant imaging studies, can be beneficial for several reasons:
1. Comprehensive History: The new healthcare provider will have access to your family member's complete medical history, including previous diagnoses, treatments, and responses to medications. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about further evaluations or treatments.

2. Avoiding Redundant Testing: If the new provider has access to the existing X-rays and reports, they may not need to repeat these tests, which can save time and reduce unnecessary radiation exposure. This is particularly important for older patients who may have a higher risk associated with repeated imaging.

3. Facilitating a Holistic Approach: Understanding the patient's history allows the new physician to consider all potential factors contributing to the shoulder pain, including any underlying conditions that may not have been apparent in the initial evaluations.

4. Streamlining Care: Having all relevant information on hand can help the new provider quickly assess the situation and develop a tailored treatment plan, potentially leading to faster relief for the patient.

In your specific situation, it would be advisable to request copies of the medical records, including the X-ray images and reports from the previous evaluations. You can usually obtain these records by contacting the medical facilities where the evaluations were performed. Most healthcare providers have a process in place for patients to request their medical records, and they are required by law to provide them.

Once you have the records, you can bring them to the new facility in northern Taiwan. This will not only provide the new physician with valuable context but also demonstrate that you are proactive about your family member's health care.

If for any reason you are unable to obtain the records before the appointment, it is still possible to have the new provider perform their own evaluations and imaging. However, having the previous records will enhance the quality of care and may lead to a more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

In summary, transferring medical records for your family member's shoulder pain evaluation is highly recommended. It will provide the new healthcare provider with essential background information, help avoid unnecessary repeat tests, and facilitate a more comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating the ongoing pain. Always ensure that your family member's health concerns are communicated clearly to the new provider, and don't hesitate to ask questions about the evaluation process and potential treatment options.