Sage-Tips

Can all doctors see your medical history?

Generally, no one is allowed to look at your health information without your permission. However, there are some exceptions where, by law, your medical information may be used and shared for specific reasons. For example, your health information may be used for reporting as required by state or federal law.

Are all medical records connected?

Nearly every health care provider has set up its own EHR system. However, EHR systems vary significantly by hospital and are usually not integrated or interoperable. Patients often must bring with them a printed health record if they want to see doctors in different hospitals.

Is there a universal medical record system?

Only Congress has the authority to develop an EMR system that is designated as universal and requires compliance from all healthcare providers.

Is there a database of all medical records?

There’s no centralized database of medical records. “However, individual physician offices and clinics are not legally required to keep patient records for any specified length of time.

Is there a central database for health records in America?

, I’ve had a few major illnesses and know lots about being a patient. No, there’s no central database in the US for health records. Since we don’t have universal health care, each company that provides health care has their own record system and is not inclined to share that information with their competitors.

Who has the right to access my medical records?

Only you or your personal representative has the right to access your records. A health care provider or health plan may send copies of your records to another provider or health plan only as needed for treatment or payment or with your permission.

What if I think the information in my medical record is incorrect?

If you think the information in your medical or billing record is incorrect, you can request a change, or amendment, to your record. The health care provider or health plan must respond to your request.

Who is not under the control of the medical records department?

They are not under the control of a practitioner or anyone designated by the practitioner, nor are they under the management of any health institution (e.g., the medical records department of a hospital). Furthermore, they are not intended to be the major source of information about specific patients for the treating physician.