Requesting a copy of your medical records

Suggestions for requesting your medical records.

You have a right to your records from a hospital. This is state law (28 Pa. C ode § 103.22 (b) (15)). You may ask for your medical records from any provider, but only a hospital has to provide them by law. You may also have to pay for the copies. Ask for the records for no charge.

Why would I need my medical records?

The information in your medical can be used to show that you need a certain service or treatment. It is important to know the doctor, hospital or provider where you received the service you are concerned about. When you request medical records be s ure to include identifying information about you or your child such as an Access card number, health plan ID number, or Social Security number. Say whether you want the records mailed or you will pick them up. You must sign the letter.

Why can’t I call and ask for the records?

Most providers will not send them to you without a written release for the information. A release is proof that you authorized them to distribute confidential information.

How do I get the records I requested?

Ask to pick up the records or have them sent to you in the mail. It may be quicker to pick up the records. If the records are needed for a medically pressing problem, pick them up.

What is the next step?

Make copies of the medical records and keep the originals you got. Include the copies of the medical records in your grievance letter to your HMO. The medical records may show why you need a certain service or treatment. The records help sup port your case with facts.

For help with your medical records for filing a grievance please call the Pennsylvania Health Law Project at 1-800-274-3258.

PENNSYLVANIA HEALTH LAW P ROJECT

801 Arch Street, Suite 610A

Philadelphia, PA 19107

Telephone (215) 625-3663

HELP LINE 1-800-274-3258

December 1998. PHLP is a Pennsylvania public interest law firm. Most laws differ from state to state. Even federal laws can be administered differently in different states. We are providing this information as a public service. We try to make it accurate as of the date indicated for each brochure. Sometimes the laws change. We cannot guarantee or promise that this information is always up-to-date and correct. If the date provided is not within the past year, call us and ask for an update. The information in this brochure is for public education only and should not be taken as legal advice. If you need legal assistance or advice on a specific problem, you should consult an attorney.