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Question:
Is a patient entitled to their medical records?
Answer:
The simple answer is YES. Although the actual medical records are the property of the health care provider, patients are entitled to copies of every piece of medical information contained within their patient record. The patient will be required to sign and execute a form authorizing the release of their medical records and may be charged a reasonable fee for duplication. Some states provide severe penalties for a doctor’s failure to provide a patient their medical records in a timely manner.
The federal HIPAA law became effective April 14, 2003. Under HIPPA you have certain federal rights, including a right to receive a copy of the providers Notice of Privacy Practices and a right to access (copy) of your medical record. HIPPA also provides patients the right to amend their medical records if, after reviewing your medical record, there are inaccuracies or omissions.
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