Can a Physician Withhold My Medical Records?
If you have suffered an injury in an accident caused by the negligence of another party, you may be able to file a civil lawsuit against the responsible party seeking financial compensation. At some point during the legal proceedings, you may have to present your medical records in order to formally document the severity of your injuries and the extent of treatment which was required. Unfortunately, there are some instances in which a physician can legally withhold your medical records. And while this may seem like a violation of your rights, depending on the nature of the case, it may be the reality.
This can be a very trying time in your life, especially if your doctor has denied your request for medical records. You need to speak with a qualified legal professional about your options for seeking financial compensation. Contact the Pennsylvania injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., at 610-667-7511 today to discuss the matter with a passionately committed attorney.
Reasons for Not Releasing Medical Records
Cases where doctors deny medical requests are actually quite rare, but they do arise periodically. Your doctor may deny your medical records request for the following reasons:
- If the records could endanger your health or the health of someone else
- If the request appears to have been submitted without valid reason
- There are psychotherapy records involved
- The records have been or are being used in another type of legal case
- As a parent, you requested your children’s records remain confidential
Whatever the reason, doctors are legally required to tell you why your records request was denied. When attempting to resolve these issues, it is generally advisable to ensure that you have a capable and experienced lawyer representing your interests and handling these exchanges.
Contact Us
Do not delay seeking legal counsel if you have been hurt in an accident caused by another person or entity’s negligence. Contact the Pennsylvania medical malpractice attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., by calling 610-667-7511 to schedule a consultation.