How to access my medical records?

[biobliterator]

I'm still looking to apply to DSP... I've been putting off seeing the psychiatrist due to anxieties from past bad experiences, and other things.

Doctors have regularly withheld information from me, due to my psychosis and being under 18. I've seen lots of different psychologists at different places, and I want to compile all my information for the new one. For my sake, for his sake, and for Centrelink down the line, I think it would be useful to have these.

Im unsure how to go about it, I talked to my GP who had called around (I'm fuzzy on the details, it's been about a month) and asked for me. Apparently it can cost around $130 to get my medical records. Is that even legal? Is there something I'm missing?

I'm so sick of not knowing what is going on. I turned 18 and I want to be in control!

[romantic_thi3f]

Hi biobliterator,

Thanks for your post. I'm sorry that you are getting the run around - as someone who has been in this position before I know how exhausting it is. Nobody makes it easy, especially with CL and the DSP.

Unfortunately - yes. Sometimes there is a fee for accessing your records. Usually it's called an application fee. It can vary depending on where you go, and often if you have a concession or pensioner card the fee can be waived.

Here's some more info on accessing your medical records -

https://www.oaic.gov.au/privacy/health-information/access-your-health-information/

I hope this helps

rt

[Lady_Nova]

I am currently trying to access hospital records from when I was 7. A single application should cover all public hospital record in a single Area Health service and the fee is around $33 I think. There are stringent proof of ID rules so I have to prove change of name before they will release my own juvenile records.

Private practices can set there own rates for access of records especially once they are archived. Your GP should have a process where you sign a form for them to get a copy of past GP records. Again fees may apply especially if they are archived. Also note that any test results and formal diagnoses may be accessible, but the doctor's notes belong to the doctor, not you. You may not get his clinical notes ... ever.