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How Do I Obtain My Medical Records?

On Behalf of | Aug 4, 2016 | Medical Malpractice

Under the Health Insurance Portability Act of 1996 (HIPPA), your medical records are considered private information between you and your healthcare provider. This means unless you have given written consent, you are the only one permitted to access your medical records.

Medical records include the following information:

  • Medical history
  • Prescribed Medications
  • Past Medical Procedures
  • Lifestyle Information ( ie. Drinking habits, drug usage, sexual preferences)
  • Laboratory Test Results

In order to obtain a copy of your medical records, you must first complete the authorization for disclosure of protected health information form. Most doctors require you fill out this form on your first visit. This form allows you choose who you use to have your medical records released to in the event you are incapacitated. In order for your records to be released, you must complete and sign the authorization form.

How Does it take?

Your medical provider has 30 days to release your records. If they have not done so within that time, HIPPA regulations allow for one 30 day extension however, the facility must provide a reason for the delay. Most medical facilities take an average of 5 to 15 days to pull medical records, so you should always allow for at least that much time.

Is there a fee?

Hospitals and other medical care facilities are entitled to charge a reasonable fee to offset the labor costs of assembling medical records. In Georgia the state fees are as follows:

  • Search & Retrieval – Up to $25.88
  • Certification Fee — Up to $9.70
  • Copying Costs for Paper Records
    • Per Page 1-20 Pages–$0.97
    • Per Page 21-100 pages –$0.83
    • Per Pages Over 100 –$0.66

It is important to note that the State Board of Workers’ Compensation has their own retrieval rates for medical records requested specifically for the purpose of a workers’ compensation claim.

Were Your Records Released Without Your Consent?

If your records were released without your consent and you suffered damages as a result, you should speak to a Peachtree City persona injury lawyer today. Our attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Our attorneys have been helping injury victims for over 30 years so you can be confident you are hiring top-notch legal counsel.

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