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750180 tn?1233265538

Patient medical files question

Not sure exactly where to post this question. I'm curious if anyone here has requested copies of their medical files before. Specifically lab test results. I've heard there is usually a charge for such documents. I wondering what my rights are as far as obtaining such copies of my lab test results (example, can they refuse my request). Maybe you can share an experience in which you requested medical files and how that went for you. Maybe you know of a website or book or other that can explain a bit of what my rights area as a patient to these files. I post here first as the doctor and staff I want to request from have been nothing but uncooperative since day one and want to be prepared in case they decide to continue on with being rather unhelpful. Thanks.
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Avatar universal
I googled the ? "are patients entitle to copies of lab results" and come up with sevearl positive responses including the following excerpt from a California medical Board website:  The patient or patient's representative is entitled to copies of all or any portion of his or her records that he or she has a right to inspect, upon written request to the physician. The physician may charge a fee to defray the cost of copying, not to exceed 25 cents per page or 50 cents per page for records that are copied from microfilm, along with reasonable clerical costs. By law, a patient's records are defined as records relating to the health history, diagnosis, or condition of a patient, or relating to treatment provided or proposed to be provided to the patient. Physicians must provide patients with copies within 15 days of receipt of the request.

There's alot more out there so google it and add your state name to see what your particular rights are.

I've requested my copies of lab results, X-rays, and doc notes on numerous occaisions.  Doc offices have always given them to me with no charge. As I see it, you paid for the tests so you "own" the results. One doc I recenlty went to mails them to you if they are normal and calls for you to come in.  

It's odd they will not release them to you, almost seems like they have soemthing to hide or they don't like it that you are taking them somewhere else.  

Keep pushing for them and pursue finding out your rights.
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Avatar universal
one more thing....the California medical board website said if Doc's don't give them to you as required you can file a complaint with the medical board.

Again, I don't see any reason why you cannot have copies of those reports.
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Avatar universal
HIPPA law...there's your answer!  We sign that waiver every time we go to the doc, but I've never known what it was. I found a very user friendly report written by Georgetown University which outlines my rights in my state, but they have them for every state. ! I wish I could give you the website but I think they''ll wipe it out here.

Again google the questions patients rights to medical records and your state. Hopefully that report will pop up. It was an everyday person's guide to your rights.  
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Avatar universal
HIPAA will protect you when you request your records.  They can charge a small fee for copying, but other than that, they must provide copies of whatever you request.  You'll have to submit it in writing.  But don't apologize for asking.  Don't be shy.  Just be matter-of-fact.  It's your right to request the records.  
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