Q: How can I get copies of my medical records from the hospital?

Ask Our Experts About Medical Records

About Our Expert

Zelda Greene is the administrator for health information management (medical records) at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network

Q: How can I get copies of my medical records from the hospital?

A: Before you can obtain your medical records, you need to fill out a "Consent for Release of Information" form. You may get one by clicking here (English / Spanish), calling the health information management (medical records) department at 610-402-8240 or by picking up a copy in person at the health information department at LVH-Cedar Crest or LVH-Muhlenberg. (Ask for specific directions at the information desk.) The consent form must be filled out in its entirety and signed and dated by the patient or the patient's guardian/legal representative.

Q: Who is authorized to sign for release of health information?

A: Authorized people include:

• The patient (not his or her spouse)
• Power of attorney if patient is unable to sign (legal document must be provided)
• A parent (if patient is under 18)
• A minor age 14-17 receiving psychiatric, alcohol or drug-treatment services, or who has a child
• Parent and minor if the patient is age 12-17 and receiving psychiatric, alcohol or drug-treatment services
• Legal guardian (proof of guardianship must be provided)
• Representative of the estate for deceased patients (copy of estate documents must be provided)

Q: Where do I send a completed "Consent for Release of Information" form?

A: You may mail or fax it to:

Lehigh Valley Hospital
Health Information Management Department
Attn: Release of Information
P.O. Box 689
Allentown, PA 18105-1556

Fax: 610-402-5823

Q: Is there a cost to obtain a copy of my medical records?

A: Yes. Copying fees are regulated by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. For specific fees, visit www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol37/37-48/2155.html.

Q: How soon can I expect the release of my medical record?

A: Copies of records are mailed, and the typical turnaround time is 7-10 days from the time a request is made. If you require immediate copies of your medical record or need to pick up your records in person, call 610-402-8240. Photo ID is required for in-person pickups.

Q: What's the procedure if I need my Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network records sent to another physician's office or hospital?

A: You will need to submit a written authorization form/letter including the name, address and/or fax number of the requesting physician or hospital. There is no charge for this service.

Please note that radiology images (like X-rays), telemetry tapes or photos are not part of your medical record. You will need to contact the office that provided the service to receive a copy of that documentation. If you received a radiology test at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network and need to forward a copy of radiology images to another doctor or hospital, call 610-402-CARE and ask for the office where the images were initially taken.

Q: Am I able to view my record?

A: Yes, but you first will need to schedule an appointment with the health information management office by calling 610-402-8330. You will need a valid authorization for release of information and a photo ID. There is no charge to view your records.

Q: How can I get my medical records from my family physician's office?

A: You will need to contact your family physician and fill out a consent form from your physician's office. Specific guidelines, processing time, etc., varies from office to office.

Q: How can I get a copy of my birth certificate?

A: Copies are only issued by the Pa. Dept. of Health, Division of Vital Records. Visit them online at www.dsf.health.state.pa.us.

Q: How does the Health Information Portability and Privacy Act (HIPPA) restrict access to my health information?

A: This act was passed by Congress in 1996 to assure that the privacy of your personal health information is protected, while allowing the flow of information needed for your care. It permits the sharing of your information among physicians, hospitals, laboratories and other medical facilities involved in your treatment. With your consent, your personal medical information may also be sent to your insurance company, worker's compensation agencies, legal offices (if you are involved in a lawsuit) and several other entities. You also may give your consent for someone responsible for your care, like a spouse, to have access to your health information.

At Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network, we are committed to efficiently transferring information needed for your medical care, while also ensuring your privacy and complying with all HIPPA regulations.

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