To improve the care of people with complex cases in hospitals, some hospitals offer “patient passports” to smooth communications in the confusing labyrinth of a hospital.

The Wall Street Journal reports:

“Like a standard medical record, the patient passport has basic data such as medical diagnosis and prescription drugs. But there are also places where the patients provide the information, such as how they cope with health conditions and the activities they need assistance with, as well as their concerns about being hospitalized and their quality-of-life goals for after discharge. They may request counseling to help deal with illness, understand medical terms or discuss end-of-life care.”