How much of a stigma is it to have a long medical history, especially with things like depression or having had a lot of procedures as a medical student? Iv never been hospitalized or anything but it's in my record that I had
depression/anxiety, alongside other procedures for other random issues I've had.
Im an M2 and just found out that my medical record from my hometown hospital is linked to my records at my home institution because my doctor mentioned something that wasn't in my current medical record here, but is in my old one.
How much damage does this do? Where your attending's opinion seems to matter so much as a medical student, I feel like I've already been judged and can kiss a fresh encounter/impression goodbye. Anyone been in a similar situation?
@NotAProgDirector
Wow. I'm sorry to hear that you have to go through this. Something like this should absolutely not be on your medical transcript. Assuming your school is accredited this should not be a concern.
If it is, I would contact the Dean's office and ask anonymously if medical records/mental health records are ever accessed or placed in a medical student transcript. If you are not confident with the answer, I would reach out to an attorney to address the issue directly and specifically.
Finally, your doctor should never be your mentor. That's a red line in medicine and is unprofessional. If the doctor so much mentions it to you or anyone else, I would pick up the phone and reach out to your Dean's office, and I would specifically call the medical board of the state you are in.
In medical school, a lot of kids have had mental health issues, and many of them were successful. I wouldn't worry about it.
You have anxiety; is different than you get anxious during procedures.
Finally, often health documents, especially electronic medical records are often in a network of care systems. Absolutely no one you know, medical students, your professors, your teachers--anyone other than your specific doctor should access them. You can simply ask for an investigation, and your concerns would be solved.
I highly doubt anyone went through your medical records. And there is no way any of that information is on your medical record. When you go to residency, their will always be a health questionnaire, and frankly it's up to you to fill it out how you wish. For instance, sometimes I get migraines but it's a personal thing and no one's business; so I don't write anything on the health questionnaire. It's not their business to know. Sometimes they ask as they consider if there are certain forms of assistance a resident may need (for example, someone who can do sign language for a deaf individual).
Good luck!
