Past medical history

Past Medical History (PMH) is a term used in the medical field to describe the comprehensive record of a patient's past illnesses, surgeries, injuries, and treatments. It is a critical component of a patient's medical record, providing valuable context and information to healthcare providers.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The past medical history typically includes information about a patient's chronic illnesses, previous surgeries or injuries, allergies, and treatments or medications the patient is currently taking or has taken in the past. It may also include information about the patient's family history of diseases, as this can often provide clues to the patient's own health risks.

Importance[edit | edit source]

The past medical history is a crucial tool for healthcare providers. It helps them understand the patient's health status and potential risk factors for certain diseases. It can also provide clues to the cause of a patient's current symptoms and guide the provider in determining the most appropriate treatment plan.

Components[edit | edit source]

Chronic Illnesses[edit | edit source]

Chronic illnesses are long-term health conditions that may require ongoing management. These can include diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and asthma. Information about a patient's chronic illnesses can help healthcare providers understand the patient's overall health status and guide treatment decisions.

Surgeries and Injuries[edit | edit source]

The past medical history should include information about any surgeries or significant injuries the patient has had. This can provide clues to current health issues and potential risks for future health problems.

Medications and Treatments[edit | edit source]

Information about a patient's current and past medications and treatments is a critical component of the past medical history. This can help healthcare providers avoid potential drug interactions and understand the patient's response to previous treatments.

Family History[edit | edit source]

A patient's family history of diseases can provide valuable information about the patient's own health risks. For example, a family history of heart disease or cancer can indicate a higher risk for these conditions in the patient.