Requests for records created and kept by a hospital should be directed to the hospital rather than to the physician. We have reproduced the most frequently asked questions in regards to medical records transfer from the information provided by the Texas Medical Board. Please keep in mind that these regulations and fee schedules are set by the state and not our office. Once you have reviewed these frequently asked questions if you need to request a copy of your medical records please click on release of information form in the links section or click here.
Medical Records FAQs
How do I obtain a copy of my medical records?
Mail a written request for records to the physician by certified mail, return receipt requested. For your convenience we are able to collect this request from you online here. This method provides assurance that the request was delivered. State law allows a patient to obtain a copy of his records, or ask that a copy be sent to a new doctor or someone else, such as an insurance company. This law requires a physician to release copies of a patient's medical records (or a narrative summary) if the physician receives written consent from the patient or the minor patient's parent or legal guardian. The physician shall furnish the information within 15 business days after the date of receipt of the request, and reasonable fees for furnishing the information. The reasonable fees shall be paid by the patient or someone on his/her behalf.
What are reasonable fees for medical records?
Board rules define a reasonable fee for providing paper copies of medical records as no more than $25 for the first twenty pages and $.50 per page for every copy thereafter. A reasonable fee for providing copies of medical records in electronic format is a charge of no more than: $25 for 500 pages or less and $50 for more than 500 pages. Also, a reasonable fee of up to $15 may be charged for executing an affidavit, if requested.
A physician may not charge a fee for a medical or mental health record if the request is related to a benefits or assistance claim based on the patient's disability.
A reasonable fee for copies of imaging studies shall be no more than $8 per copy of an imaging study.
What are reasonable fees for billing records?
Unless the billing records are specifically requested, the physician is not required to provide copies of billing records as part of the medical records. A physician may charge separate fees for medical and billing records requested.
What are reasonable fees for hospital records?
Requests for records created and kept by a hospital should be directed to the hospital rather than to the physician. Fees for hospital records differ from those records provided by physicians.
How long do physicians have to keep medical records?
Generally, seven years from the last treatment date.
What Form Do I Need To Request Records or Have Records Released ?