In case I change my birthing options later on, and want to switch doctors, can I get my earlier records, pap smear tests etc reports from my existing OBGYN transferred to some other OBGYN or just given to me, without any problem? Do OBGYNS release reports to me ( so that I can take them somewhere else)?
Thanks!
Yes, they have to give it to you or send it where you want to go. I'd just ask to have my chart copied on your last visit, that's the easiest way.
I had to change doctors (I had both an OB-GYN and MFM doctor) due to a move and both offices just copied my chart for me, and the MFM doctor mailed my most recent ultrasound to the new MFM doctor since it wasn't in my chart yet. You have to sign to have them mail/fax stuff though.
When I had to get my son's social security card my driver's license was expired so I had to get medical records to prove who I was. I just called them up saying that I needed copies of the records and they just handed me them. You could try something like that. It's actually kind of fun to try and figure out what the doctor's wrote with their bad hand writing.
I believe I filled out a form to release my ultrasounds to me when I changed my OB. Since I carried it from one office to another myself, there was no cost.
Yes, that is your information and you are entitled to every single note written about you. I have records of all my delivery notes that I requested before I left the hospital. Turns out I needed them for post-partum treatment of issues that arose as a result of delivery.
When you go to you first appointment at the OBGYN they will hand you a piece of paper to be filled out asking any former doctors offices for your records. Or you can just ask for them.
Whenever you switch doctors, they can request your records. If you do it, you sometimes need forms filled out. Call the ob/gyn and see what their policy is. Some just need a fax from the new office. And never be afraid to switch doctors if you feel it is the right decision for you. Is your current ob/gyn not supportive of the options you may be considering?
I would not be surprised if there is a slight charge for this request. You are best to take them in hand to the new doctors in my opinion. Just remember that sometimes doctors can't read other doctor's writing, so you may have to help update the new doctor.
Just request your records (ALL doctors note, reports, everything) for your own file at home, that way you don't step on their ego. You should see the letters some of my friend's have received when they've transferred their files or decided to do a homebirth. These letters are scathing!
Hi K.,
Dr.'s must release your files if you decide transfer. It is your right to choose your own medical care, and they must give you or more likely send the file to the new Dr. I have a business called Peaceful Birthing and teach relaxation and fear release for birthing. www.YourPeacefulBirthing.com We also talk about making sure the provider and place of birth is the right decision for the parents. Although this is not the norm, I have had some moms change drs./locations after deciding that their birthing preferences would probably not be upheld. I even had a mom at 39weeks change. It is all possible!!
Congrats on your pregnancy,
J.
I just had to do this exact thing and it cost me $44.25 only to be asked later on if I wanted everything or just the last 2 years. Considering the last 2 years would be just 2 pap's I thought $44.25 was insane - of course I needed everything. It was taken care of without too much hassle.
Absolutely! They are your personal medical records, and it would be malpractice for them not to provide them to a new physician for a compete medical history on you.
That being said, it usually costs you $25-30 to request the copies and the mailing to the new practice. Be prepared so you're not caught off guard when they ask for the money.
People switch doctors all the time. It's a standard part of a practice, so they're completely accustomed to providing the service. They just have to charge for the time/materials to make the change.
they will but theres a charge to do it. usually 25 dollars.
You have right to obtain a full copy of your medical records to do with as you please. You may have to pay a fee for the "cost of the paper and printing".
If your doctors office is not forthcoming, file a complaint!
Good luck.
