Should I have a copy of my medical records?
You might want them if you’re switching doctors, seeking a second opinion or have complicated health problems, applying for a job, credit, or insurance.
Some patients may want to check for errors, much like they would a credit report.
Also, the information in your medical records can directly affect your ability to get life insurance, employment, promotions, credit, loans, and health insurance.
The Medical Information Bureau (MIB) is a central database of medical information shared by insurance companies. The information contained in a typical MIB record is limited to codes for specific medical conditions and lifestyle choices. If you have ever had health insurance, the MIB has a file on you and you can request a free copy of your record once/year. They will report to you:
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The nature and substance of information, if any, that MIB may have in its consumer files pertaining to you;
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The name(s) of the MIB member companies, if any, that reported information to MIB; and,
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The name(s) of the MIB member companies, if any, that received a copy of your MIB consumer file during the twelve (12) month period preceding your request for disclosure.
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Go to: http://www.mib.com/html/request_your_record.html or call MIB’s toll-free number for disclosure is 866-692-6901 (TTY 866-346-3642 for hearing impaired)