How do I write a letter of request for medical records?

I was treated in your office [at your facility] between [fill in dates]. I request copies of the following [or all] health records related to my treatment. [Identify records requested, e.g. medical history form you provided; physician and nurses’ notes; test results, consultations with specialists; referrals.]

Can the patient obtain a copy of his medical documents?

According to HIPAA, patients have the right to request their records. Other individuals can also request records on behalf of a patient. These include a parent, legal guardian, patient advocate or caregiver with written permission from the patient.

Should patients have access to their medical records?

The studies revealed that patients’ access to medical records can be beneficial for both patients and doctors, since it enhances communication between them whilst helping patients to better understand their health condition. The drawbacks (for instance causing confusion and anxiety to patients) seem to be minimal.

How do you formally request a document?

Start the letter with a warm greeting, then introduce yourself properly. State who you are, your name, job, position and name of the organization. It will make it easy for the reader to process and understand who is requesting the document and will help them respond accordingly.

Who owns the medical record of the patient?

The Supreme Court found that physicians, institutions, or clinics compiling a medical record own the physical record. Patients, meanwhile, have an interest in the information contained in their records that was obtained as a result of the treatment provided, even if it was derived from other sources.

When should access to records be denied to a patient and why?

The access requested is reasonably likely to endanger the life or physical safety of the individual or another person. This ground for denial does not extend to concerns about psychological or emotional harm (e.g., concerns that the individual will not be able to understand the information or may be upset by it).