I have one all lined up with an appointment and everything, but they said nothing about my old records. Isn't that something they need? My question is, do I need to go personally pick up my records, or do they have to mail them to the new doctor? I don't think there are any laws saying that I can't have my records, right??
Please help?
2007-02-20 11:32:20 · 8 answers · asked by ? 3 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
The HIPAA laws state that you have a right to receive copies of your records from your former doctor. However, your new doctor doesn't need them to see you the first time. If you like, you can go to your former doctor to get them but they may charge you for them. (copying fee) If you ask your new doctor for a release of records form, sign it in the new office and the old doc can release the records at no charge to the new doc. They can usually be in the new docs office by the second visit. If you have a condition that is complicated like cancer or some neurological problem, it is best to keep copies of all your medical records yourself as you will be going to lots of doctors.
2007-02-20 17:31:52 · answer #1 · answered by Yo C 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You're absolutely right. Most offices these days, in the world of convenience for THEM, would prefer for YOU to do the leg work. So here's my suggestion. Remember, convenience for THEM.
Call them and give them as much notice as possible. Tell them you need your records copied (or they may be willing to give you the originals) and that you will pick them up. You may be asked to come in and sign a release form, or they may let you wait and sign it when you come and get them. Warning, though...most places will take at least a week to get this done, because it is considered "extra" work for them. Then maybe call back in a day or two and politely remind them by asking if it will still be ok to pick them up on (Friday) or whatever. In the meantime, if this will not leave you enough time to make your new appt., you may have to reschedule, unless you don't really need the records for the first appt.
But, YES---you are absolutely entitled to your old records, and in a timely manner.
Hope this helps....good luck!
2007-02-20 11:39:45 · answer #2 · answered by ncgrn 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would want to see any and all of your old records if I were going to be your doctor. With only one or two unusual exceptions relating to psychiatric care, you are entitled to see and have your medical records. The old doctor's office might charge you reasonable fees to copy them, but generally for continuing care, a doctors office will provide you with your records for free.
You should probably call in advance to set it up, as some offices have a lot of paperwork they want filled out before releasing your records.
You might try to remember any hospitalizations where your old doctor would not have been notified and get copies of those records as well.
2007-02-20 11:50:28 · answer #3 · answered by ricklouys 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Call up the new doctors office and ask them if you need to get the records or if they will get them for you.
2007-02-20 11:36:42 · answer #4 · answered by CctbOh 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes you can walk into your old Dr 's office and they have to give you a copy of your records. I am sure they could fax them to your new doctor if you asked.
2007-02-20 11:36:16 · answer #5 · answered by Alisa 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sign a piece of paper & your records will be automatically transferred I just did this
2007-02-20 11:39:10 · answer #6 · answered by hobo 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
With your permission, your new doctor can request your records. Call his / her office and they will tell you what to do.
2007-02-20 11:39:26 · answer #7 · answered by Neil L 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, but they may require you to purchase them from the doctor....and I've already heard of doctors refusing to give patients their files........saying it was THEIR property. Best of luck to you.
2007-02-20 11:43:43 · answer #8 · answered by cajunrescuemedic 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋