Requesting Medical Records When You Move
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Can I take my medical records with me when I move out of state?

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Asked by Admin

April 8, 2013 under Moving Companies


Answered by Staff Writer

April 16, 2013

When you move, so should your medical records.

As the patient relocating, it is your responsibility to assure your healthcare documents are delivered into the hands of your old doctor prior to seeing the a new physician. Though you may think you do not have a right to your records, you do and that is why a manila folder of your private papers must be in your hands when you relocate. If you do not choose to handle them when moving your entire household, then have them transferred before departing.

Access to Medical Records

Every United States citizen who has been medically treated has a right to healthcare records. Insurance companies and employers also have a right to obtain your records if you agree to release. Receiving your records is a very simple task, taking nothing more than a signature and sometimes a letter of request.

Depending on the doctor's office, patients will either have to write a letter of request or simply fill out a form to receive their records. After doing so, your healthcare provider must hand over your documents. In some cases, a physician's office will charge you for copies of the documents, and in most cases there is a fee for receiving a x-ray copy.

Transferring Medical Documents

Rather than handle your records, you can choose to have healthcare documents transferred from one doctor to the other. This is also a simple task, taking no time at all. Just as you would sign a release of records if picking up the documents in person, you must also sign the same agreement if having your records transferred.

Unlike picking up the papers in person, physicians often do not charge a patient when they transfer records from one office to another. However, there is sometimes a nominal fee for the transfer. At that point, your old doctor will either decide to fax or mail your records to your new doctor, taking the responsibility out of your hands.

If you are ever denied access to your medical records, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service's Office of Civil Rights.

After you receive quotes and choose a moving company to help you relocate at Movers.com, you are sure to arrive at your new location happy and healthy. When you are all settled in, take a moment to fill out a moving review to help others decide on a reputable company to choose from.

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