Why Can’t People Access Their Own Medical Records When They Are Essential to Their Health History?

In the United Kingdom, you have the legal right to access your medical records, as do people in many other countries. However, the process often involves paying printing charges, especially if you want physical copies. In the modern world, many medical records are digital, and web portals may allow you to access and download them for free. If you need someone to print them out or burn them to a CD, you will likely have to pay a small service fee, which is entirely legal.

Reasons for Paying to Access Your Medical Records

Many people wonder why they must pay to access their own medical records. After all, these records contain crucial information about your health and well-being. It's implied that the authorities decide that you shouldn't know basic facts about your health and well-being.

However, in reality, whoever possesses the medical records is the owner and caretaker. While the FBI might have a file on you, they won't hand it over just because it's "your" information. In the modern world, most medical records are computerized, and many organizations offer free access to these portals. If you need printed copies, you will need to pay for the printing and copying services.

Legal and Practical Considerations

You are entitled to access your medical records, but the organization hosting them is also entitled to be reimbursed for the work you request. Fees typically range from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars, depending on the size of the records and the services required. You need to submit a special request for the records in advance so that the necessary preparations can be made.

Status of Medical Records Ownership and Access

Medical records are not your personal property; they belong to the facility where they were generated. If you have received medical treatment from multiple facilities, your records may be scattered across different locations. You can request copies, but you may face charges for the work involved in complying with your request.

Accessing Medical Records in Practice

Making the process easier, most clinics and medical practices now have online portals such as MyChart that allow you to access your medical records yourself. Anyone is entitled to request a copy of their records, a right that is enshrined in law. While the initial request for your records is your prerogative, the organization is allowed to charge for the service due to the added workload. Small hospitals or clinics may not have dedicated staff to handle these requests, but larger facilities often have entire teams to manage such requests and require payment.

Interpreting Medical Records

Many medical records contain specialized terminology and jargon. Even if you are capable of understanding basic medical concepts, comprehending all the details may be challenging. Some organizations might require a qualified person to interpret the paperwork for you. This ensures that you can properly understand your medical history. While most people may not be able to interpret all the medical jargon, no one can outright refuse to provide your records as long as you make a legitimate request.

In conclusion, while the right to access your own medical records exists, the practicalities of the process often involve paying for certain services. The reasons for this are both legal and pragmatic, ensuring that the necessary staff and resources are available to handle requests efficiently.