How to Obtain Your Medical Files From a Doctor's Office

Medical records are created when you seek medical care from a professional, such as a doctor or dentist. Your medical records contain private information about your medical health history, family history, lifestyle, current treatment, medications and laboratory results. Privacy related to health information is governed by federal law. The Privacy Rule in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) was implemented in 2003. This rule ensures your right to have access to your own medical records. Knowing how to request and obtain medical records will help you exercise your rights under the law.

Instructions

• 1

  Call your doctor's office. It is best to call the office first to inquire if there is a charge to copy medical records. Some offices charge a per-page fee to copy medical records. This fee may need to be paid in advance.

• 2

  Fill out a medical records request. Many facilities have these form requests available online or in their office. You may also ask for a blank form to be emailed or faxed to you. If the office is unable to provide a form, you may write your own letter to request medical records. Your letter should be dated and signed. It should state what records you are requesting and for what time period.

• 3

  Return the request and payment. Once your written request and payment have been received, you should have copies of your records within 30 days. Some states require that records be delivered within a shorter time frame. If the request takes more than 30 days, you should be notified with a reason for the delay.

• 4

  Receive the records. You may either pick up the copies of your records in person or ask for them to be mailed to you. If you choose to have copies mailed to you, there may be an additional charge for postage. Additionally, records that are mailed to your residence may or may not be received by you personally. Before making the decision to have records mailed, consider your privacy. If the information is highly sensitive, you may wish to pick it up in person.