Overview
Every doctor's office and hospital has a slightly different process for requesting medical records. Generally the steps are: fill out an authorization form giving the hospital permission to share your medical records; then send the completed form by mail, fax, online form, or in-person; then wait 10-30 days to receive the records.
PicnicHealth has compiled resources for how to get your medical records from some of the largest hospitals in the country. View your hospital below for information on how to obtain medical record request forms, relevant phone numbers, and other details.
You can also sign up for PicnicHealth and we'll do the hard work of collecting your medical records and then compiling them in an easy-to-use digital Timeline of your medical history.
Looking for a simpler solution?
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Sign UpTypical steps to request your records
- Complete authorization form
- Send the completed form by mail, fax, online form, or in-person
- Allow 10-30 days to receive your records
Why do I need to access my medical records?
Taking control of your care journey starts with understanding how far you’ve already come. Keeping track of past visits, medications that worked (or didn’t work), labs, x-rays, and more can be tricky for even the most organized person. Luckily, we’re here to help. When you give PicnicHealth permission, we take care of the hard stuff – like contacting providers and specialists – and organize all of your records into one easy-to-read timeline. This will give you a comprehensive overview of your medical history and make seeking a second opinion, transferring to a new healthcare provider, or making informed decisions about your healthcare much easier. Plus, having a copy of your medical records can help you track your health progress over time.
What's in my medical records?
Your medical records are a complete snapshot of your health history, including things you’re probably already familiar with, like past lab results, diagnosis, and treatment information, and some things you may not have seen before, like doctor’s notes from past visits. You'll also find details about surgical procedures, hospital stays, and any allergies or chronic conditions you may have. Essentially, your medical records provide a comprehensive overview of your healthcare journey to date.
How long does it take to receive my medical records?
The turnaround time can vary depending on the provider and how far back you go. Typically, we’ve seen it take 10-30 days. To help gather your medical records quickly, be sure to authorize PicnicHealth to gather them on your behalf, and also give your providers a heads up that PicnicHealth will be reaching out to them and that you consent to share your records with us. If things are taking a little long, don’t hesitate to follow up with your provider’s office.
What about requesting another person's medical records?
If you’re a caregiver or have legal power of attorney, you can request another person’s medical records. You’ll usually need to provide proof of your relationship and legal authorization, such as a power of attorney, guardianship documents, or parental rights if the patient is a minor. Be sure to complete the proper authorization forms and provide all the necessary documentation to help the process go smoothly.
How can I keep my medical records secure?
Keeping your medical records secure is important to protect your privacy. Be cautious about who you share your information with, and always use secure passwords and extra layers of security, like two-factor authentication, when possible. PicnicHealth handles your information with care. We never share your information without your permission and keep your data secure, so everything is on your terms.
