Who owns medical records - the patient or the hospital?

Asked over 1 year ago - Fort Stewart, GA

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I have a social security disability review upcoming but I do owe the hospital and the doctor some money. Can the medical records department withhold the release of my medical records to social security because of my debt?

Attorney answers (5)

  1. Pro

    Contributor Level 20

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    Answered February 27, 2012 22:11. No.

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  2. Contributor Level 20

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    Answered February 29, 2012 11:21. Medical records should not be withheld from a patient or another doctor because of lack of payment for services rendered. The American Medical Association also says that it is unethical for a Dr. to withhold records under the circumstances.You should complete a valid HIPAA release and request your records.

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    Mr. Lundeen is licensed to practice law in Florida and Vermont. The response herein is not legal advice and does not create an attorney/client relationship. The response is in the form of legal education and is intended to provide general information about the matter within the question. Oftentimes the question does not include significant and important facts and timelines that, if known, could significantly change the reply and make it unsuitable. Mr. Lundeen strongly advises the questioner to confer with an attorney in your state in order to ensure proper advice is received.

  3. Pro

    Contributor Level 16

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    Answered February 27, 2012 23:06. As the other attorneys answered, "no," your medical records cannot be withheld from you.

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  4. Pro

    Contributor Level 20

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    Answered February 27, 2012 22:43. No

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  5. Contributor Level 11

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    Answered February 29, 2012 22:04. As others have said, you have a right to your medical records. Have an attorney write a letter to get them for you if you are being stonewalled.

    The information presented here is general in nature and is not intended, nor should be construed, as legal advice.... more

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