I have recently needed to see a doctor about a potential illness, and had a diagnostic test done. I will not be able to see this doctor after a few days as I will be leaving the area. I would also like to see the test rsults for myself and perhaps take them to another specialist for interpretation. What are my rights regarding obtaining a personal copy of my medical records with this doctor and with this test. Can I request a copy of the doctor’s records to take with me? Can I request the facility that did the test give me a copy of the test results and interpretation by the radiologist on staff?
The answer to all of your questions is yes. You have the right to all of your medical records. Your physician (or the testing facility) can charge a nominal fee to cover the cost of copies, but you do have the right to obtain copies. Just go to your doctor’s office, sign a release, and they’re yours.
It’s easiest if you go in person to sign the release and arrange for the copies, because some physician’s practices are becoming more restrictive about how records are released, and to whom. Some no longer allow faxed releases, and others are strict about requiring photo ID to guarantee that the person asking for the records is the person who is the subject of the records. One practice I’m semi-familiar with required notarized releases for a while, but dropped that after a patient demanded free copies in exchange for the notary public’s fee.
YMMV. Call your physician’s office to find out what their requirements are.
Robin