Requesting Records?

[imperfectionsrme]

Um, I was just wondering... Can you request all your records and stuff from a psych or therapist you used to see? Like, can you just ask them to let you see your file or have a copy or something?

[Morpheus]

i honestly dont know how it works where you live, but i have seen all my records. Here it is your right to see them. It is complicated and such, especially if you have been in treatment several places but it is your right as a patient to see what has been written about you. I personally had copies of all my records sent to me so that i could read them. Mind you, it is often not a fun read so i recommend you think it through properly before requesting to see them.

My suggestion is that you ask your doctor or whoever you think may know. But since it is about you, i doubt they have a right to keep it secret from you.

[akita]

I have seen my mental health file and have a copy of it. I had to fill out a request form and pay the copy per page charge. Tell the reception person at the clinic you used to see them at that you want to get a copy of your file and they will tell you what you need to do.

[sherlock holmes]

Yes, you have a right to see your medical records. You have to put your request in writing. If you want to see your records on a computer, then it's free. If you want copies, then they usually charge 10p per page with a maximum charge of £50, though most of my records were sent to me for free.

However, the psychiatrist/doctor has the right to remove content from your notes that they feel may make you feel worse if you saw it, or for legal reasons (if it mentions other patients etc).

[not_so_insig]

However, the psychiatrist/doctor has the right to remove content from your notes that they feel may make you feel worse if you saw it, or for legal reasons (if it mentions other patients etc).

That is interesting. I personally hate the fact that the psychiatrist can still not let you see the whole picture though. It's as if they still have control!!

I can understand about editing out other people out (such as patients) though due to data protection laws, though.

The only thing is that I would say, although you are allowed to see your notes, that make sure you are ready emotionally and quite strong emotionally. You may read things that may hurt you or you strongly disagree with. The last thing you need (it probably wont happen, but I have to say it) is an relapse or that your relationship is destroyed with your psychatrist because of something you read. Also you need to make sure that when you have your notes, that you have plenty of time and space to read through them.