Medical records contain highly private and personal information and are considered confidential. Patients generally have the right to their own medical information and the right to control who else has access to their records. Therefore, with certain exceptions, medical information can only be released with the written authorization of the patient or the patient's authorized representative. This document can be used to provide the necessary authorization. Under rare circumstances, a health care provider may restrict the release of medical records to the patient if the release could be harmful to the patient or others. Most states recognize that the actual medical records are the property of the health care provider who compiles, stores, and maintains the information. Typically, then, only copies of medical records are released and the health care provider maintains the original record. Providers can charge a fee for copying the records but should not deny the release of medical records because the patient has outstanding medical bills. Many health care providers have very specific procedures regarding the release of medical records because of confidentiality concerns and the special protection afforded certain types of records such as HIV, mental health, and substance abuse information. Although this form specifically addresses certain types of records, providers may require you to use their specific form to authorize the release of records. Therefore, it is possible that a provider will not honor this program's form. THIS PROGRAM IS NOT INTENDED TO BE USED FOR THE RELEASE OF MEDICAL RECORDS FOR LITIGATION PURPOSES. Contact your lawyer if such a release is needed. |