Frequently Asked Questions:
This page contains some of the most common Frequently Asked Questions by patients and physicians inquiring about our services:
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Q: How can I obtain copies of my health records?
A: It's very simple, go to your Primary Care Physician and give him (her) the Authorization Release Form and we will take care of the rest for you. We will in turn contact your PCP or other Specialist. Upon receiving your medical information we will upload the data into your Personal Medical Records account.
Q: Am I required to pay for copies of my health record?
A: Your healthcare provider is allowed to charge a reasonable fee for copies of your health record. The fee can only include the cost of copying (including supplies and labor), as well as postage if you request the copy to be mailed. If you request an explanation of this information, you may also be charged a fee for its preparation.
Q: When can my health information be shared without my consent?
A: Your, health record will only be shared with your prior authorization unless lawfully requested by a governing agency.
Q: Do I have the right to see my child's health record?
A: Yes, generally parents do have access to their minor children's health record. There are three circumstances where parents do not have access:
- When the minor is the one who consents to care and the consent of the parent is not required under law;
- If the minor obtains care at the guidance of a court or person appointed by court; and
- When a parent agrees that the minor and healthcare provider have a confidential relationship.
However, access to parents may be permitted in these circumstances if permitted by state or other applicable laws.
Q: I'm caring for a parent, how can I get copies of their health records?
A: To access another adult’s information:
- Have the person you are caring for submit written authorization to his or her doctors and healthcare facilities.
- In that authorization, the patient should include language that gives permission to release all information regarding treatment and care to you, and/or anyone else the patient wants to have access.
- This document might also include the names of people the information should NOT be shared with. An example might be a domestic abuse case where the wife would request that a husband not have access to any information.
- Then you’ll need to give this authorization to the healthcare facility’s Health Information Management Department.
In cases of lengthy or permanent incapacity, a legal guardian for the patient may be appointed through court proceedings. In that case, the legal guardian can access the patient’s health records and decide who else can see them.
Q: Where can I locate the federal and state laws that govern the disclosure of my health information?
A: For information about the health information laws in your state, visit www.healthprivacy.org.
Most health records are subject to the HIPAA Privacy Rule, which can be accessed at http://aspe.hhs.gov/admnsimp/bannerps.htm.
Health records originated by the federal government, such as the Veterans Administration or Indian Health Services are also subject to the Privacy Act of 1974. The Privacy Act can be accessed at www.usdoj.gov/foia/privstat.htm.
Health records originated by federally subsidized substance abuse programs are subject to the Confidentiality of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Patient Records rule. These regulations can be accessed at www.gpoaccess.gov/cfr/index.html.
Q: Why would I want to keep a "Personal Health Record"?
A: Your health information is scattered across many different providers and facilities. Keeping your own complete, updated and easily accessible health record means you can play a more active role in your healthcare. You wouldn’t write checks without keeping a check register. The same level of responsibility makes sense for your healthcare.
A patient’s own "Personal Health Record" offers a different perspective, showing all your health-related information. It can include any information that you think affects your health, including information that your doctor may not have, such as your exercise routines, dietary habits, or glucose levels if you are diabetic.
Also, the "Personal Health Record" is a critical tool that enables you to partner with your providers.
It can reduce or eliminate duplicate procedures or processes, which saves healthcare dollars, your time, and the provider’s time. And the information you gather gives you knowledge that assists your preparation for appointments.
With your "Personal Health Record", you can:
- Knowledgably discuss your health with healthcare providers
- Provide information to new caregivers
- Have easy access to your health information while traveling
- Access your information when your doctor's office is closed
- Record your progress toward specific health-related goals
- Refer to physician instructions, prescriptions, allergies, medications, insurance claims, and more.
- Track appointments, vaccinations, and numerous other wellness healthcare services.
Q: If I don't have access to a computer can I still keep a "Personal Health Record"?
A: Yes. By maintining a simple file folder with printed copies of your health records. Online access to your "Personal Health Records", however, are much more efficient than paper, especially for physicians. The important thing, however, is to have a single source for your health information. The format is your choice. |
