According to one aspect of the present invention, the medical data card automatically runs when inserted into a communication port of a computer. One type of communication port can be a USB port. The card prompts the service provider to enter a password that is verified by the server. The patient ID can then be entered and the patient's records can be retrieved. The server can be remotely accessed by the healthcare provider via the internet. A log is generated and stored on the server containing information such as who, when, what records were accessed. A family card can be provided permitting a minor's records to be obtained via the parent's or guardian's card. The card and the server automatically synchronize each time the card is used.