If you are filing for disability benefits, you may need to obtain copies of your medical records to support your disability claim. Medical evidence is the most important part of a long term disability insurance claim or a Social Security Disability claim. However, obtaining these records can be a daunting task, especially if you’re seeing multiple doctors and you’re worried about the cost.
In this article, we will explore three ways to collect medical records from a doctor without breaking the bank:
- HIPAA medical record requests,
- HITECH medical record requests, and
- Using online patient portals.
HIPAA Medical Record Requests
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a federal law that gives patients the right to obtain copies of their medical records from their healthcare providers.
To make a HIPAA medical record request, you need to submit a written request to your doctor’s office. The request should include:
- Your full name,
- Date of birth,
- Contact information,
- A description of the records you want, and
- The date range you are interested in.
Under HIPAA, healthcare providers have up to 30 days to respond to your request. They can charge you a reasonable fee for copying and mailing the records. However, the fee cannot be greater than the cost of labor and supplies necessary to fulfill your request. If you’re facing financial hardship, you can request a waiver or reduction of the fee.
HITECH Medical Record Requests
The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act of 2009 provides patients with additional rights to access and control their electronic health information. If your doctor uses electronic health records (EHRs), you can make a HITECH medical record request to get electronic records.
A HITECH request is like a HIPAA request. You will need to submit a written request to your doctor’s office. However, you’ll need to specify that you want the records in an electronic format.
Your doctor must provide you with copies of your records within 30 days of your request. They also cannot charge you more than a reasonable cost-based fee.
Using Online Patient Portals
Many healthcare providers now offer patient portals to access a copy of your health information. These are secure online platforms that allow you to access your medical records and communicate with your healthcare providers. Patient portals are typically free to use. They are a convenient way to obtain your medical records without formally requesting your medical records or paying a fee.
To use a patient portal, you’ll need to register for an account with your healthcare provider. Once you’re logged in, you can view your medical records, including test results, medication lists, and appointment history. You can also request prescription refills, send messages to your healthcare provider, and schedule appointments.
Conclusion
Obtaining your medical records is an important step in supporting your disability claim. However, it does not have to be expensive or take a toll on your mental health. With a HIPAA or HITECH medical record request you can get your records without breaking the bank. You can also use an online patient portal, which is typically free.
Remember to be patient and persistent in your efforts to obtain your records. Don’t hesitate to seek help from patient advocates or legal resources if you encounter any roadblocks. We represent claimants nationwide. Call Ortiz Law Firm at (888) 321-8131 to schedule a free case evaluation.
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