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Old Nov 25, 2015, 08:48 PM
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eeyorestail eeyorestail is offline
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Member Since: Apr 2013
Location: USA
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I have never heard of that! I always thought you had a right. You may have come across this same site in your Google research, but just in case, here is what I found--

From https://cdt.org/insight/getting-your-medical-records/

Quote:
Can my provider refuse to give me a copy of my records?

Yes, but only under limited circumstances – and they have to tell you why. The most common basis for denial is when a licensed health care professional has determined that giving you access to the records is reasonably likely to cause harm to you or another person.If the provider denies you access to your records, then the provider must put the denial in writing. The writing must explain why the provider denied you access. The writing must also tell you if you have a right to review the denial and how you can file a complaint – you usually have the right to a review, unless you’re asking for records the provider cannot give you by law (such as psychotherapy notes or records they are compiling for a lawsuit).Sometimes a health care worker will mistakenly argue that they cannot release your own medical records to you due to privacy laws. This is a common misconception, and you should not accept this as an answer. In nearly all cases, your health care provider or health plan is obligated to grant your request for access or copies. You do not have to give them your reasons for making the request, even if they ask.

What can I do if my provider refuses?

In most cases, you can demand a review of the provider’s decision to refuse giving you a copy of the records. If you demand a review, the provider will designate a licensed health care professional who was not involved in the original decision to refuse your request. The professional will review the decision and make a final judgment on whether to grant you access to your records.If you feel your provider is withholding your medical records from you without a legitimate reason, you can file a complaint with your health plan or the provider. Providers and health plans to document complaints, review them, and penalize employees who don’t follow the law or the provider’s policies. You can also file a complaint with your state’s medical board.Lastly, you can file a complaint with the federal or state government. To file a complaint to the federal Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), you must file it in writing (on paper or electronically) within 180 days of being denied access to your records. Your complaint must describe what happened and name the person or provider involved. HHS may or may not investigate your complaint.
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Thanks for this!
tealBumblebee