A digital document, typically created using spreadsheet software, offers a structured way to compile and monitor laboratory data over time. This allows for the convenient organization of information such as date of test, specific test names, measured values, and reference ranges. An example might include logging cholesterol levels, blood glucose, or complete blood count (CBC) results to observe trends and changes.
Systematic compilation of these data points empowers individuals to take a proactive role in managing their health. This method facilitates early detection of potential health issues by highlighting gradual shifts or sudden anomalies in test results. It provides a concise summary for healthcare professionals, enabling more informed discussions and potentially expediting diagnosis and treatment. The growing accessibility of spreadsheet software and increasing patient engagement in personal health management contribute to the increasing popularity of this practice. Historically, individuals might have relied on paper records, but digital tools offer superior organization, searchability, and the ability to generate visualizations like graphs and charts.
