Release of Records
Authorization for Release of Records
Our Health Information Department maintains your medical records and ensures your health information is kept private and secure. Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPPA), you have the right to get a copy of your information or to make sure it is correct. You can also ask to change any wrong information in your file or add information if you think something is missing or incomplete.
You can request a copy of your records by submitting a consent form.
How to Obtain a Copy of Your Records
1. Fill out the Release of Patient Information Consent Form.
2. Submit the completed form in person, via email, fax, or postal mail.
In Person
3rd Floor, Health Information
2202 False River Drive
New Roads, LA 70760
Fax
Attn: Health Information
(225) 618-4509
Postal Mail
Attn: Health Information
Pointe Coupee General Hospital
2202 False River Drive
New Roads, LA 70760
FAQs
What is the charge for obtaining a copy of my records?
$0.
Requests by patients for their records are processed free of charge.
When will records be available?
Usually within 14 days.
In accordance with HIPAA law, we will respond to requests within 30 days. However, once the request is received, we generally respond within 14 business days. Our Health Information Dept. will call the phone number provided in the release of information form to notify the patient or parent/legal guardian that the information is available to be picked up.
How do I receive my records?
In person with a photo ID.
Patients must pick up their own records in person from the Health Information Dept. located on the 3rd floor. Patients will need to bring their photo ID. Records are not mailed or faxed unless required by the requesting individual. A patient will need to give consent to the Health Information Dept. if another person is picking up their records.
Can a request be cancelled if the records are no longer needed?
Yes.
Requesting individuals can cancel a release of records at no cost. Please notify our Health Information Dept. that a release of records needs to be canceled.
How can I obtain the records of a deceased patient?
With a POA or death certificate.
Requesting individuals must provide a Power of Attorney (POA) or a death certificate in order to obtain a patient’s records.
How long do you keep records?
10 years.
We keep all records for a minimum of 10 years after the last patient visit. The records of children are kept until the child is 21 years old.
How is my privacy protected?
We take your privacy very seriously.
Pointe Coupee General Hospital follows all federal and state laws regarding your personal healthcare information and records. By law, your health information can only be used and shared for specific and very limited purposes not directly related to your care, such as between your doctor or health insurer. For more information, our notice of privacy practices is available.
What if my question is not answered here?
Call us!
Please contact our Health Information Dept. — we are eager to help in any way that we can.