There are a number of records you need to
keep for your baby. Keep these records in a safe place where
you can find them when needed. It is a good idea to keep
records in a fire-proof box.
Birth
Certificate
Your baby's birth certificate is official
proof of date of birth and citizenship. The birth
certificate is needed to start school, to get a driver's
license, or to apply for a passport. It may also be needed
to prove the right to vote, marry, get Social Security
benefits, and even to inherit property.
The staff at the hospital where your baby is
born routinely register the birth with the local health
department or registrar of births. If you have a home birth,
be sure someone is responsible for registering the birth.
You will receive notice when the birth
record is officially filed. This notice is usually a copy of
the registration or the birth certificate. Check the
information on it to make certain it is correct. Call the
health department to find out what you need to do if you
find any mistakes. Get any mistakes corrected right away.
Have several copies of the birth certificate
made, and keep at least one in a safe place like a safety
deposit box.
Social
Security Number
Most hospitals will give you the paperwork
you need to get a Social Security card and number for your
baby. You can also get the form and instructions online at
http://www.ssa.gov. A Social Security number is needed
to be claimed as a dependent on your tax return, to open a
bank account, or to buy savings bonds. Some schools and
government agencies may also require that you provide this
number.
Medical
Records
Accurate medical records are important for
all members of the family. They are useful when you apply
for health and life insurance. They also help health care
providers know if certain diseases run in your family.
Child's Medical
Record
Key parts of your baby's medical record
include:
- Immunization (shot) card with exact
dates and types of all vaccines. This is required for
admission to school.
- Allergies and any other special
condition.
- Any medicines your child takes.
- Any injuries, including date and age
when they happened and any treatment your child
received.
- Hospitalizations with dates,
diagnoses, and treatments.
- Screening Tests, including any tests
to check your child's vision, and hearing, and any
allergy testing.
Family Medical Records
In addition to your child's medical record,
the family medical record should also include:
- The dates and places of birth, medical
history (diabetes, glaucoma, high blood pressure), and
cause of death of all close family members.
- Information about any time a member of
your immediate family has been in the hospital (when,
where, what for, the names of health care providers).
- Any specific food or drug allergies of
family members.
