Atlantic General Hospital is a well-known healthcare provider in the region, and its medical records are a vital part of patient care. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about accessing, managing, and understanding your medical records at Atlantic General Hospital.
Understanding Your Medical Records
Your medical records contain detailed information about your health history, including diagnoses, treatments, medications, and test results. This information is crucial for your healthcare providers to make informed decisions about your care.
Accessing Your Medical Records
How to Request Your Medical Records
There are several ways to request your medical records from Atlantic General Hospital:
- Online Portal: Atlantic General Hospital’s patient portal allows you to securely access and download your medical records online.
- Email: You can send a request via email to the hospital’s medical records department.
- Phone: Call the medical records department directly to request your records.
- Mail: Send a written request by mail to the hospital’s medical records department.
Required Information for Requesting Records
When requesting your records, you’ll need to provide the following information:
- Your full name
- Date of birth
- Medical record number (if known)
- The specific records you need
- The reason for your request
- Your preferred method of receiving your records (e.g., mail, email, portal)
Requesting Medical Records for a Loved One
If you need to access the medical records of a loved one, you’ll typically need to provide proof of your relationship to them, such as a power of attorney or a legal guardianship document.
Understanding the Cost of Medical Records
While Atlantic General Hospital may provide some medical records for free, there may be a fee associated with obtaining certain records or copies.
Protecting Your Medical Records
Atlantic General Hospital takes the privacy and security of your medical records very seriously. Here are some steps they take to protect your information:
- Secure Data Storage: Your records are stored in secure, encrypted systems.
- Access Controls: Access to your records is restricted to authorized personnel.
- Regular Security Audits: The hospital conducts regular security audits to identify and address any potential vulnerabilities.
Maintaining Your Medical Records
Keeping Your Information Up-to-Date
It’s crucial to ensure that your medical records are accurate and up-to-date. You can update your information by contacting the hospital’s medical records department directly.
Corrections and Amendments
If you discover any errors or inconsistencies in your medical records, you have the right to request corrections or amendments. The hospital has a process for handling such requests, ensuring that all changes are documented and reviewed.
Special Considerations
Electronic Health Records (EHRs)
Atlantic General Hospital utilizes electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient record keeping and access. EHRs offer many benefits, such as improved patient care, reduced errors, and enhanced communication between healthcare providers.
HIPAA Compliance
Atlantic General Hospital complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to protect your medical records from unauthorized disclosure.
FAQs
How long does it take to receive my medical records?
The processing time for medical records requests can vary depending on the complexity of your request. However, Atlantic General Hospital typically aims to fulfill requests within a reasonable timeframe.
What if I can’t afford the fee for obtaining my records?
Atlantic General Hospital may offer options for patients who are unable to afford the fees for obtaining medical records. You can contact their medical records department to discuss your situation.
Can I request my medical records online?
Yes, you can request your medical records through Atlantic General Hospital’s online portal.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need assistance accessing your medical records, please don’t hesitate to contact us:
Phone: 410-641-4100
Email: [email protected]
We are dedicated to providing you with the information and support you need to manage your medical records effectively.