#asknostr

Does anyone have experience working in medical records in the US?

I need a copy of my medical records from an ENT office. Surgery was about 10 years ago. I live out of state.

I have called the office many times. I have filled out a medical records release form for the office.

They either do not call me back when I leave a voicemail or when I do talk to someone they promise to look and promise to call me back, but they never do.

I need advice on how to escalate this. Could an attorney be helpful?

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Discussion

Get details. Make them be reaponsible. Always write down the date and time while the person can hear you, then get their name. If they say they will get back to you, ask for a date and/or time. When the date arrives, call and confirm. If it's not happening, get a reason, and set a new date. Talking to people that make bigger salaries costs them more money. After three documented screw ups, contact them. Immediately ask them for their supervisor's name and contact info in case they are as incompetent as their staff.

It's okay to get mad, but always be polite. Don't cuss, etc, or give them any excuse to quit on you. Be tenacious and hold their feet to the fire. Become so annoying in your basic request that the staff will always remember your name.

I would call them, fax them, and email them so you have record that you had contacted them. After that you can begin applying pressure to them if need be. That way if you have an attorney on retainer or need to hire one they have something to work with.