There are many significant challenges living with Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), and managing all of the health related information associated with it. When I was in the process of being diagnosed and then newly diagnosed, I searched for ways to document and manage not only the symptoms that I was experiencing but also the appointments and tests that I was being sent for. The best that I could come up with was a cumbersome binder filled with symptom logs, my medical history, family medical history, test results, allergies, and medications - that I would bring with me to my medical appointments in the hopes that I did not forget something crucial. The mental and physical toll of staying organized on top of the daily symptoms of my illness contributed to worsening the post-exertional malaise (PEM) that I experience. This binder for tracking all aspects of my health was what I relied on until recently, when I began using KeepTrackMed, and that was a turning point in managing this crucial aspect of my life.
One important difference KeepTrackMed has made is that all of my test results and medical information are now stored in one place on my phone, and I no longer have to lug that large binder to every appointment. I can easily pull up any document I need, whether it’s a list of my medications, the results of a recent test, or a log of my symptoms. This has made it physically easier for me, reducing energy expenditure and pain.
The app has also made it cognitively easier because I am better organized and I can easily plan what I need to discuss in the Appointments/Visits feature and also make notes on the appointment that I can refer back to. I can upload information to the Tests/Pathology feature, and make notes about research and potential treatments in the General Notes feature.
KeepTrackMed has also made a big difference in maximizing my time in doctor visits. With limited time available in my appointments, I can refer to my notes and ensure I have covered everything that I wanted to share with the doctor. The ability to track all of the testing that I have had done allows me to ensure, when visiting multiple doctors, that tests are not repeated, and that I get the best, most efficient care possible.
The capability to manage my medications, prescriptions, and supplements has been a very important feature of the app for me. KeepTrackMed’s Prescriptions/Medications/Supplements feature allows me to record every medication, dosage, and supplement I’m taking, along with any changes I have made over time. I can log what works and what doesn’t, keeping an accurate history of my treatment. This makes it easy for me and my health care professionals to review my medication and supplement history, and adjust treatment plans as needed. It’s also been incredibly helpful to have all of this information in one place, especially when prescriptions need to be refilled or changed. I no longer have to rely on memory or sift through old papers, everything is organized, up-to-date, and ready when I need it.
The Symptom Tracker feature is another significant benefit of this app. With ME, the severity of my symptoms can fluctuate during the day and over time. Keeping a detailed record of these fluctuations has been incredibly helpful for both me and my doctor and other health care professionals. Before, I struggled to recall exactly how long I had been experiencing certain symptoms, or I would forget to mention something important during the appointment. Now, I can open the KeepTrackMed app, pull up my symptom log and it’s all right there in front of me. This has made my appointments more productive, and I feel like my medical care providers have a clearer picture of my condition.
Another stress-saving feature of KeepTrackMed is the colour coded Reminder system. Living with a chronic illness there are many appointments, tests, and medications to manage. Before using this app, I used a variety of reminders in different places, felt disorganized, and was worried about forgetting something important. Now, I can set notifications for every appointment, test, medication refill, and even online support groups.
KeepTrackMed also has the option for multiple user profiles which is a great tool for caregivers. For those with ME or a chronic illness who are unable to track and manage their own medical information, the app allows for caregivers, in addition to managing their own medical information, to also manage all of the medical information for their loved one with ME. The multiple user profile options are also great if a person with ME needs to manage medical information for other friends or family members including their companion and/or service animals.
Finally, KeepTrackMed is true to the principle of “Nothing about us without us”. From its inception, the app has been developed in consultation with individuals living with chronic illness/disability, gathering their input on app features and integrating ongoing feedback through updates. As someone living with ME, a chronic illness/disability, it is important to me that my needs are reflected and my voice is heard.
Living with ME is incredibly difficult and anything that makes life easier is invaluable. KeepTrackMed has helped reduce the stress and mental load that comes with managing this chronic illness. I feel more organized, better able to advocate for myself, and much more in control of my health. I no longer carry around piles of paper or rely on my memory to stay on top of things. Instead, I have a simple, easy-to-use tool that keeps everything in one place, making my life just a little bit easier in the face of this very challenging illness.
Written by Sue of Ontario, Canada - A KeepTrackMed User
Comments