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How to Correct Entries in Your Medical Chart in Washington State

Written by: Christopher Lee Thayer

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Posted over 2 years ago. Applies to Washington, 0 helpful votes, 0 comments

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Request correction or amendment in writing

The statute allows for a patient to request changes "for purposes of accuracy or completeness" and requires that the request be made in writing to the health care provider. PRACTICAL TIP: Provide a written request along with the change and/or amendment and the reasons for your request. Although not required by statute, I recommend sending this request by certified mail, return receipt requested. Save a copy of your letter for your file.

Health care provider must respond within 10 days of receipt of request

Absent "unusual circumstances" the health care provider must make the requested change (or inform the patient in writing that the requested changes are not being made) within 10 days of receipt of the request. RCW 70.02.100

Option 1: Changes accepted

If the health care provider accepts the requested changes, they must: (1) include the amendment/addition as part of your chart; (2) mark the challenged entries as corrected or amended; and (3) indicate where in the chart the corrected or amended record can be found. RCW 70.02.110(1)

Option 2: Changes not accepted

If the health care provider refuses to accept the requested changes, the patient is allowed to submit a concise statement regarding the correction and why it was requested. This statement is to be maintained as part of the patient's medical record. The health care provider must also mark the challenged entry, indicating that the patient claims the entry is inaccurate or incomplete.