How to Correct Inaccurate Medical Information in Doctors Files
The HIPPA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) privacy rule is a federal law enacted to provide citizens with the right to make a request to see medical files, secure a copy and to make corrections by adding information to the files. In addition, many states also have laws giving citizens the right to access medical files. The most important aspect of correcting inaccurate medical information in doctors' files is to ensure your health receives accurate documentation in the event of an emergency, as well as to ensure accurate billing. The process of correcting your medical files involves a few simple steps to review the files and then sending a request to the doctor to update the files.Instructions
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Request to review your medical records from the doctor's office and take the time to determine any inaccuracies. Make copies of any records you find in error. The most important inaccuracies you want to look for are those that may affect a diagnosis, treatment, or ability to receive healthcare. You will also want to correct any information associated with your contact or billing records.
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Call your doctor's office and request for the provider to send you a form to make amendments to your records. Ask the office to send the ++++
form via mail or fax if you prefer.
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Fill out the form indicating the corrections needed to your medical files, and if the corrections involve an in-depth explanation, compose a letter detailing the inaccuracy. Staple the letter to a copy of the medical record containing the error and include with the amendment form. Be precise in your communication; detail both the inaccuracies and the correct information requiring documentation.
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Make copies for yourself of the completed amendment form, all medical records containing the error, and the letter you composed and signed. Then return the form along with your letter and copies of the inaccurate documents to the doctor's office. Your healthcare provider then has 60 days to respond to your request as set forth by HIPPA. The doctor's office is not required to make changes to your file if the medical provider does not agree with your findings; however, they usually will if the information is indeed inaccurate.
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