Two RDs are in a practice together. I’ll call them “good doctor” and “mean doctor.” My doctor is the “good doctor.”
Well, “good doctor” and “mean doctor” had a falling out, and “good doctor” left and started his own practice. I received a letter from “mean doctor” informing me that my doctor is no longer at the
I called “mean doctor” and told them I would be continuing with “good doctor” and asked if they could send my medical records. They said no, I would have to call “good doctor.” So, I called “good doctor” and they said they would contact “mean doctor” for my medical records.
When I show up for my first appointment with “good doctor” at his new office, the nurse asked if I could arrange to have my results from my eye exam over six months ago forwarded to them. Apparently, the “mean doctor” refused to send all my medical records. I am furious. Can “mean doctor” legally do that? I was NEVER his patient.
NO..the records belong to you. Call the "mean" doctors office again. You may have to pay for the pages to get a personal copy but in this case it may be well worth it. You don't want them to magically "disappear"correct, I remember this and it was 'dumb'! And I had to pay some outrageous amout for copying. But is is worth it.Buckeye, I never thought of that. You're right. The way he's acting, I wouldn't put it past them to say they didn't have my records. I will get copies.Technically, I believe they do not have to give you copies of things that came from a different doctor. I remember when I switched rheumys my old rheumy sent the new one my files just fine but then when I had to go to another specialist, the new rheumy wouldn't give me the copies or even make me copies of the stuff the old one sent her, something about they weren't her records to give or some crap!Micheleb,
That makes sense about not sending documents from other doctors, but they wouldn't send anything but the last set of blood tests my doctor ran. None of the tests he ran in the last 2 1/2 years except for the last set.
They are going to charge me for the first 10 pages and 25 cents for each page after that. Oh well, I guess it's worth it.
Well, that sucks but I am afraid that they can legally charge you for your own documents! michele - I'm pretty sure there is a cap as to how much they can charge..........I think your doc went over that. SOMEWHERE on AI we did a post about this last year............if my memory is correct, the cap was a page........... I bet if you called the medical board and explained to them the game thisThis was posted before. Each state has their own law as to how much a doctors office can charge for records. For NH, 1-30 pages will cost you .00, anything thereafter will be 50 cents per page.
I know it's a pain and feels like you're being screwed however a lot of offices are short staffed and copying someones record is a pain in the butt. It takes time, use of copier and paper.
Just a suggestion, but if you ever do get your records, run to a copy store and make a copy for yourself. Next time you'll have it...and it's cheaper.
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You are not currently logged in. Medical Records: Frequently Asked QuestionsThe following information about medical records does not constitute legal advice and is provided solely for the convenience and use of myNDMA members. Unless otherwise noted, the information here is specific to the United States of America. US state laws and privacy regulations may differ; visit www.healthprivacy.org for state-specific details.
What exactly are considered "medical records?"Generally, your medical records are any records created when you receive treatment from a healthcare professional. Medical records can include, but are not limited to:
Do I have a legal right to my medical records?You have a legal right to receive a copy of your medical records and images from any and all healthcare providers. You may also have the right to access your original medical chart and images, including original mammography films.
Why would I want copies of my medical records?You may have several different providers and healthcare facilities that have medical records for you. By keeping your own updated health record, you can more proactively manage your healthcare. Add to these records any additional information that helps build your health profile, such as family history, exercise routines and dietary habits, and you have a complete personal health record (PHR). Your PHR can help you:
The realities in healthcare suggest other reasons why you should keep copies of your medical records:
How can I obtain copies of my medical record(s)?You'll need to complete an "Authorization for Release of Information" form for each facility from which you want records. You can download this form here or request a form directly from your healthcare provider. Your records are customarily maintained by a Records Custodian, who will copy any and all records requested. You may need to be specific, so be sure to ask the Records Custodian to identify the contents of your chart. In some cases, the facility may have your medical records and/or images (x-rays) in an electronic format and can provide them to you on a CD or DVD. If you are not sure which records you need (or what records the facility has for you), contact the information management/medical records staff at the facility for assistance. Copies of your records should be supplied to you within 30 days of your request.
Do I have to pay for copies of my records?In most cases, yes. Healthcare providers can charge a reasonable fee, which can be based on the cost of copying (preparation, supplies, labor) and the source of the data (computer, microfiche, paper, film). If you request that the copies be mailed to you, you may also be charged for postage. Some US states provide guidelines for "reasonable fees," so you should check with your local government for more information. Note that some providers do not charge to send copies of your medical records directly to another healthcare provider. If you would like your medical records faxed directly into your secure myNDMA locker, you can give your physician your personal fax cover page containing your unique barcode identification. The myNDMA fax technology will route your records directly into your Unfiled > Records folder, without any human intervention. You may find that fees may be reduced using this method, so be sure to ask.
What if I see an error in my medical records?If you believe there is an error in your medical file, you should notify your healthcare provider, in writing, of the discrepancy. While the original document will not be altered, your healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, or technician) may compose an addendum and place it in your chart along with the original record. Your written notification, along with the addendum, will constitute the new medical record. Your written notification should include:
How do I get my medical records transferred to my new doctor?Because transferring records between providers is generally considered a "professional courtesy," most physicians do not charge a fee for transferring records. Some physicians, however, may charge a copying fee. Your physician can provide you with an authorization form to release your medical records to your new provider.
I'm caring for a parent, how can I obtain copies of their health records?Your parent will need to complete an "Authorization for Release of Information" form, giving permission to release all information regarding treatment and care to you (and/or anyone else whom your parent wants to have access). Additional ResourcesFor more information about obtaining medical records, and any associated privacy laws governing medical records, the following Web sites may be informative.Health Privacy Project -- State-specific health information laws US Department of Health and Human Services -- Privacy standards International Canadian Standards Association -- Canadas Model Code for the Protection of Personal Information European Union Internal Market Directorate/Data Protection -- personal data protection in the European Union Center for Democracy and Technology -- briefing materials on the European Union Directive on Data Protection NOTE: These resources refer to Web sites maintained by third parties over whom National Digital Medical Archive, Inc. (NDMA) has no control. As such, NDMA makes no representation as to the accuracy, completeness, adequacy, or any other aspect of the information contained on such websites. |