Does it usually cost money to have records sent from one doctor to another?

Question

My son's old physical therapist is charging ten dollars per page of records to be sent to us. I was wondering if there is usually a charge for sending the records to another doctor instead, once we find a new doctor and therapist at our new home. Thanks,
Ciara

Answer 1

Contrary to popular belief, you do not own your records...they are property of the facility, however, you have a RIGHT to SEE them. It is perfectly normal for a hospital or clinic to charge for a COPY of the records...this pays for the time, labor and paper it takes to assemble them. However, if you sign a release of records, they may be able to fax it to the new practicioners for a much less expensive cost or possibly for free. I would ask about this option.... (and yes, I agree $10 per page is very steep)

Answer 2

Are you sure it's not ten cents a page for copying, or $10 total?? I've certainly heard of doctors charging a reasonable fee, since it costs them to send the records; but $10 a page is highway robbery!

Answer 3

I would write them a "demand" letter. "Since you are now intending to charge me $10/page for my son's
records, I hereby notify you in
writing that I am now demanding my son's full and complete records be presented to me personally.
I will be in your office on
date_____. If you refuse,
I will get a Court Order to
have said files released.
Send this by certified mail with return receipt requested.
Keep a copy. If they do not
respond..go to your local
County Clerk's office and tell
her you need a Court Order.

Answer 4

no because you own them
they are your records

Answer 5

no. they are your records. you can go pick them up and bring them to the new doc with you