How to Get Copies of Your Medical Records in CA
In California, patients' access to medical records is granted under the Health & Safety Code, Section 123110. In general, the section states that any adult patient or minor patient that by law can consent to medical treatment has the right to view their own medical records. As defined by the Medical Board of California, medical records include "health history, diagnosis, or condition of a patient, or relating to treatment provided or proposed to be provided to the patient."
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Instructions
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Make a written request to the doctor or medical facility. A physician's office is required to give you access to your records during normal business hours. Under the state's guidelines, you are to be granted access within five days of receipt of your written request.
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Make a copy of all or any portion of your medical records, but know that the medical office is allowed to charge a per page fee for copying on top of reasonable clerical costs. Records on microfilm can be more expensive, and x-rays or tracings from an EEG or ECG don't have to be provided. You can request to purchase copies of your x-rays or tracings, which must be provided to you within 15 days of your written request.
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Notify a physician that you are only interested in certain portions of your medical records. A physician can provide a summary relative to a particular condition or disease.
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Tips & Warnings
In the event that you feel you or your representative is being denied timely access to your medical records without just cause, you can file a consumer complaint with the Medical Board of California.
