Does a patient have legal access to his/her medical records if they are a part of their medical records from other sources. ie: hospitals, physicians letters, treatment programs, etc?
Optional Information: Country relating to Question: United States State (if USA): South Carolina Already Tried: I have an attorney for hire for helping me to get disability and the professsionals I see won't release records that they have in their posession from other sources. I have tried the other sources but they don't keep records past 10 yrs.
Yes. A patient is legally entitled to access all his/her medical records as long as he/she provides a written request and release to the medical provider (and as long as that patient has sought direct treatment from that medical provider). However, most providers (like hospitals) destroy their records after 7 years as they are no longer legally required to maintain them.
Experience: 10+ yrs experience as arbitrator, litigator, and hearing officer