Q: Why are my son's doctors withholding his medical records? I need them to obtain his Social Security Number
Why won't my son's doctors provide his records? The SSA keeps directing me to request them, but the doctors are refusing
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A:
It’s frustrating to feel stuck between different offices when all you want is to take care of your son’s needs. Doctors typically cannot refuse to provide medical records without a valid reason. They are required by law to give access unless there are specific legal, privacy, or safety concerns.
Sometimes, delays can happen because of paperwork errors, missing authorizations, or administrative issues. Make sure you've submitted a proper and complete request for the records, including any required forms or identification. It might help to follow up in person or in writing to clarify any confusion and ensure they have everything needed to process your request.
If the doctors continue to refuse without a clear explanation, consider contacting a patient advocate at the hospital or clinic. They can often help you understand the reason for the delay or refusal and guide you on how to move forward. If all else fails, you may want to reach out to legal support to know your rights and explore other ways to obtain these essential documents.
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