Posted on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025 at 11:02 am
When you are involved in a personal injury case, medical records often play a crucial role in proving the extent of your injuries and the treatment you received. These documents can support your claim and help establish the damages you are entitled to. Knowing how to request your medical records properly is important to keep your case moving forward without unnecessary delays.
Understanding the Importance of Medical Records
Medical records provide a detailed account of your health condition, diagnosis, treatments, and progress. In a personal injury claim, they offer concrete evidence about your injuries. This documentation helps your lawyer demonstrate the impact of the accident or incident on your physical well-being.
In Georgia, having accurate and complete medical records can strengthen your case. These records may show the cause of injury, treatment costs, ongoing medical needs, and even future care. Without them, it can be difficult to prove the full extent of your damages to insurance companies or in court.
Who Can Request Medical Records
Generally, you have the right to request your own medical records at any time. You can contact the healthcare provider directly, whether it is a hospital, clinic, or private doctor’s office. Your attorney can also request these records on your behalf, but they will usually need your written permission to do so.
If you are working with a personal injury lawyer, they can guide you through the process and make sure the request is done correctly. Having a professional handle the request can avoid common mistakes and speed up the process.
Steps to Request Medical Records
Identify Which Records You Need
Start by figuring out which medical records are relevant to your case. This may include emergency room reports, doctor’s notes, imaging results like X-rays or MRIs, physical therapy records, and billing statements. Your lawyer can help identify the necessary documents.
Locate Your Healthcare Providers
Make a list of all medical providers who treated you after the injury. This can include hospitals, specialists, and rehabilitation centers. You will need their contact information to submit your request.
Obtain a Medical Records Release Form
Healthcare providers typically require you to fill out a medical records release form. This form authorizes them to share your records with you or your lawyer. You can usually find these forms on the provider’s website or request them by phone or in person.
Complete the Form Accurately
Make sure to fill out the release form carefully. Include your full name, date of birth, the dates of treatment you want records for, and where the records should be sent. If you want the records sent to your lawyer, provide their contact information clearly.
Submit the Request
Send the completed release form to the medical provider. Some providers accept requests by mail, fax, email, or through an online portal. Keep a copy of the form for your records.
Follow Up as Needed
If you do not receive the records within a reasonable time, follow up with the provider. Georgia law requires medical providers to respond to requests promptly, usually within 10 business days. Sometimes delays happen, so polite reminders can help.
Know Your Rights Under Georgia Law
Georgia has specific rules that protect your right to access medical records. Under the Georgia Medical Records Act, providers must allow patients to inspect and copy their medical records. They may charge a reasonable fee for copying and mailing the documents, but the cost must be disclosed upfront.
Providers cannot deny access without a valid reason. If a provider refuses or delays your request unreasonably, you may have legal options. Your lawyer can help if you encounter issues.
Tips for Managing Your Medical Records
Once you receive your records, review them carefully. Make sure the information is complete and accurate. If you notice errors or missing details, contact the provider to request corrections.
Keep a copy of all medical records in a safe place. Organize them by date and type for easy reference. These documents will be important throughout your personal injury case.
How Your Lawyer Uses Medical Records
Your attorney will use your medical records to build a strong case. They review the documents to understand the nature and severity of your injuries. Medical records help prove that the injuries were caused by the incident in question.
Lawyers also use these records to calculate the value of your claim. Treatment costs, ongoing care, and any permanent disabilities shown in the records influence the compensation amount sought.
Sometimes your lawyer will share medical records with insurance companies or opposing counsel as part of settlement negotiations or court proceedings.
Conclusion
Medical records contain sensitive personal information. Under federal law, specifically HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), your medical information is protected. Healthcare providers and lawyers must handle your records confidentially.
When requesting records, be sure you are dealing with legitimate providers. When sharing records with others, understand who will have access and how your privacy is protected.
Knowing how to request your medical records properly is an important step in handling a personal injury case in Georgia. These records provide vital proof of your injuries and treatment. Following the right steps and understanding your rights can help you avoid delays and build a stronger case. If you have questions or need assistance, consult a personal injury lawyer experienced in Georgia law to guide you through the process.