How to request hospital medical records

When this matters

Practical steps

1. 1Identify the exact facility and dates of service.
2. 2Ask whether records, imaging, and pathology are requested separately.
3. 3Use the official release-of-information form or patient portal.
4. 4Request digital copies when possible and keep your own backup.
5. 5Ask how long the request usually takes and whether urgent clinician-to-clinician transfer is available.