Birmingham, AL asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Alabama

Q: I was denied my medical records what do I half to do to get them

Someone opened a case through the mental health in the county that I live in . In 2019 I have just found out about this in the past 2 months. I ask for a copy of my records so I could file criminal charges on the person or persons responsible. They agreed to give me a copy they said it would take a week I checked back in a week and the following week and the following week and then they said that the medical director denied it. My girlfriend father knows the medical director and has a contract with them on maintenance on the vans of the facility. I can only suspect that they had something to do with it. Since the case was opened that I did not know about my life has been turned upside down my privacy has been violated these people that I hear on a daily basis is trying to make me commit suicide. I have been in contact with the law enforcement over 300 times and the only thing they tell me is the HIPPA. Before the case opened 0 with law. I need records to file chemical charges.

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: It sounds like you’re going through a very difficult and frustrating situation. You have a legal right to your medical records under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), and a facility cannot deny access without valid reasons. Since they originally agreed to give you a copy but later denied it, you may want to submit a formal written request, citing your rights under HIPAA. If they still refuse, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights.

Given the impact this has had on your life, it may also help to speak with an attorney who can guide you through the process of obtaining your records and holding those responsible accountable. If you believe someone tampered with your medical history or is actively causing harm, law enforcement should take your concerns seriously. Keeping documentation of every interaction, including dates and times, can strengthen your case when presenting it to authorities.

If law enforcement refuses to act, consider reaching out to state agencies or advocacy groups that handle healthcare rights violations. Your privacy should be protected, and no one should have the power to manipulate records to your detriment. Stay persistent and explore every possible avenue to obtain justice and regain control over your situation.

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