How to request your medical records

Audience: all

Requesting your medical records is an important step to understanding your health and managing your care. Medical records include your health history, test results, treatments, and medications. You can ask for copies of these records from your healthcare provider or facility. This guide explains how to request your records safely and effectively. It covers what information you need, how to make your request, and what to expect. Knowing your rights about medical records helps you stay informed and involved in your healthcare decisions. Remember, medical records are confidential, and providers usually require proof of identity before sharing them. Telemedicine can help guide you through this process, but some steps may need in-person follow-up. This guide also highlights important warning signs that require urgent medical attention and clarifies what telemedicine can and cannot do in this context.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Chest pain or pressure that lasts more than a few minutes or comes and goes — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or confusion — call emergency services right away.
• High fever with severe headache, stiff neck, or seizures — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Explaining how to request medical records.
• Answering questions about the medical records process.
• Helping prepare documentation for record requests.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Accessing or releasing your medical records directly.
• Diagnosing or treating urgent medical conditions.
• Performing physical exams or procedures related to record requests.

What Are Medical Records?

Medical records are documents that contain your health information. They include notes from your doctor visits, lab test results, imaging reports, prescriptions, and treatment plans. These records help healthcare providers understand your medical history and provide the best care. Having access to your medical records lets you keep track of your health and share information with new doctors or specialists.

How to Request Your Medical Records

To request your medical records, you usually need to contact the healthcare provider or facility where you received care. Here are common steps:

Providers often respond within a few weeks. Some may charge a small fee for copying or mailing.

Your Rights and Privacy

You have the right to access your medical records under international health privacy standards. Healthcare providers must keep your records confidential and secure. They usually require proof of identity before releasing records to protect your privacy. If you find errors in your records, you can ask for corrections. Sharing your records with others should be done carefully to protect your personal health information.

When to Seek Help Urgently

While requesting records is usually safe, certain symptoms need immediate medical attention. Contact emergency services or visit a healthcare facility if you experience:

These situations require urgent care and are not suitable for telemedicine or record requests alone.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine providers can guide you on how to request your medical records. They can explain the process, help you prepare your request, and answer questions about your health information. However, telemedicine cannot access your records without your permission or provide certain services that require physical exams or procedures.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Identify the healthcare provider or facility that holds your records.
• Gather your personal identification documents (e.g., ID card, passport).
• Write down the specific records or dates you want to request.
• Find out the preferred method to submit your request (mail, email, online portal).
• Prepare a written request or complete any required forms.
• Have a secure way to receive your records (e.g., secure email, postal address).

After your tele-visit

• Review the received medical records carefully for accuracy.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you find errors or need clarifications.
• Keep your records in a safe and confidential place.
• Use your records to inform your healthcare decisions or share with new providers.
• Follow up if you do not receive your records within the expected timeframe.

FAQs

How long does it usually take to get my medical records?

It often takes a few days to a few weeks for healthcare providers to process your request and send your records. The exact time can vary depending on the facility and the amount of information requested.

Can I get my medical records if I am not the patient?

Generally, only the patient or their authorized representative can request medical records. You may need legal authorization, such as power of attorney or consent, to obtain someone else's records.

Are there any fees for getting my medical records?

Some providers may charge a reasonable fee to cover copying, mailing, or electronic delivery costs. Fees vary by facility and country but should be communicated upfront.

Can telemedicine providers give me my medical records?

Telemedicine providers can guide you on how to request your records but typically cannot access or release your records directly without your permission and proper authorization.

What should I do if I find mistakes in my medical records?

You can contact the healthcare provider to request corrections or amendments. Procedures vary, but you have the right to ask for your records to be accurate and complete.

Sources

1. Medical Records — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Your Medical Records and You — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Patient Rights and Medical Records — Mayo Clinic.
4. Accessing Your Medical Records — National Library of Medicine.

This guide provides general information about requesting medical records and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical records or health conditions. Telemedicine guidance does not replace in-person care when needed.