Can a doctor refuse to give a patient a copy of their medical record?

The physician was sued for failing to provide patients with copies of their medical records! Unless otherwise limited by law, a patient is entitled to a copy of his or her medical record and a physician may not refuse to provide the record directly to the patient in favor of forwarding to another provider.

How can I get copies of my mental health records?

For mental health, the laws are trickier and in some cases the doctor’s office may not release your records to you directly for “your own protection.” To start out, of course, you can try just contacting your doctor’s office and requesting your records. They may have a form for you to sign.

Is it legal for patients to read their psychiatric record?

There has been substantial controversy about whether patients should be allowed to read their psychiatric record. Traditionally, patients have not had the legal right, but this has changed in recent decades, and federal law now strongly supports a patient’s right to view the chart on request.

Can a health plan send you a copy of your medical records?

A health care provider or health plan may send copies of your records to another provider or health plan only as needed for treatment or payment or with your permission. The Privacy Rule does not require the health care provider or health plan to share information with other providers or plans.

Can you get a copy of your mental health record?

One interesting aspect included under its Privacy Rule is that it gives the patient the right to review, inspect and obtain a copy of their physical and mental health records. You deserve to know exactly how and where to check mental health records.

Who is entitled to a copy of your medical records?

Only you or your personal representative has the right to access your records. A health care provider or health plan may send copies of your records to another provider or health plan only as needed for treatment or payment or with your permission.

What does HIPAA mean for mental health records?

Since the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 became law, the manner in which medical professionals keep, share and transfer patients’ health records to electronic form has become far stricter — including any mental health records. HIPAA ultimately protects the privacy of any individual receiving medical care.