Obtaining your medical records is your right as a patient. At San Jose Behavioral Health Hospital, we strive to ensure that you have timely access to your medical records.
What is a release of information (ROI)?
The release of information (ROI) document legally allows staff to share information regarding patient treatment, status, and discharge. This document also allows for the release of medical records upon discharge. Each patient is allowed to determine which information they choose to release. A patient may request the ROI form from any staff member.
Patient medical records are confidential and shall not be released, nor the information contained therein disclosed, except in accordance with legal requirements and San Jose Behavioral Health. Although the information contained within the medical record belongs to the patient, patient medical records are the property of San Jose Behavioral Health. Patient medical records are maintained in accordance with legal, accrediting, and regulatory requirements.
How do I access my medical records?
Requesting your medical records is quick and easy. Follow these steps to request your medical records:
- Print, fill out, and sign the authorization form.
- Submit the form by:
- Fax: (669) 234-5957
- Email: Concord.SanJoseMedicalRecords@sanjosebh.com
- Mail: San Jose Behavioral Health, Attn: Health Information Management
455 Silicon Valley Blvd., San Jose, CA 95138 - Drop off in person: 455 Silicon Valley Blvd., San Jose, CA 95138
In most cases, we are able to complete requests within five business days, but it may take up to 14 business days. The following are some of the various parts of a medical record that someone might request:
- Discharge summary
- Psychiatric evaluation
- History and physical
- Laboratory reports
- Consultations
If you are the patient and someone other than you is requesting medical records, they must have documented power of attorney over your healthcare matters, be a documented guardian, or be executor of your estate. Otherwise, your permission is needed for them to request and pick up your medical records. If you are unable to pick up your medical records personally, you should complete an authorization form allowing your designated representative to pick up your medical records.
How much will it cost for a copy of my medical records?
In accordance with California law, you may be charged for copies of medical records. No fee is assigned for medical records sent to other healthcare facilities or to law enforcement agencies. Fees start at $0.25 per page. Copies of medical records are complimentary for San Jose Behavioral Health patients.
Why have I not received my medical records?
If it has been more than 14 days and you have not received your records, check your email spam folder if you requested medical records via email. You can also review the authorization form to ensure that the “release to” information is correct.
For more information, you can contact the Medical Record/Health Information Management Department at (669) 234-5959, ext. 733.
Why was my request for medical records declined?
A request could be declined for the following reasons:
- A copy of a government-issued photo ID was not provided.
- The authorization is incomplete; for example, there is no signature or date.
- The authorization has expired.
- You did not submit proof that you are the patient’s legal representative or legal guardian.
You can contact the Medical Record/Health Information Management Department for more information at (669) 234-5959, ext. 733.
