Whats the correct procedure for requisitioning my own medical records?

Answer 1

I just told my doctor I needed them.He told his nurse to make copies and I left the office with them.
I have done it twice and never been charged.

Answer 2

You can directly ask your doctor as there are a number of factors here. State laws, local laws, and the established procedures.

The notes that doctors take are not always considered part of your medical record so notes may not be available to you. If you've paid for lab reports, you can ask the lab company for them who will generally lob it back to "Get them from your physician."

Usually at many of my doctors offices, I simply call up and ask for a copy of the lab report and give them a fax number. If they balk, I sometimes followup with a self addressed stamped envelope and a formal request in writing.

Hospitals will usually give you full reports of surgeries etc ONLY if you know to ask for them. Otherwise it's the minimum.

Answer 3

Actually, you are entitled to your medical records and you won't need a court order, but do expect to pay a fee. Most places charge between $5 and $20 for a copy of your records. It is so weird, if you are changing doctors and they request copies of your records the first doctor will send them a free copy, but if you want a copy you have to pay a fee. All you have to do is go to your doctor's office and ask for a copy, pay the fee and they will give you the records.

Answer 4

In writing to the main office of the medical facility.

There may be a small charge for the price of the copies and records.

Answer 5

You mean obtaining them. You need to put into writing a request to the hospital or the doctor. Some will tell you that they can only be released to another hospital or doctor (at your request). Actually, this may be a shock but you don't own the records-so getting them may require a subpoena.

Answer 6

America or Britain?. In Britain you just make a request to your GP, who, is obliged by law to handover photocopies of your records but is allowed to charge for them. Don't expect to receive ALL of them. Some of the GP's comments over the years beggar belief. I know!

In America...I don't know.

Answer 7

You are right- It must be done properly; unlike the government who are about to make them available to all and sundry in their own departments.