Re: "Medical Records released if legal action filed

[Peter Marshall <techdiff@ix.netcom.com>]

What difference does it make if this occurs in the context of a legal
action, IYO? After all, some of the same info. is routinely and
systemically being disclosed/released absent any such legal action.

Peter Marsahll

At 01:54 AM -0700 05/05/99, KCuyler555@aol.com wrote:
>In a message dated 4/29/99 8:52:11 AM Central Daylight Time,
>mail@dynalysis.com writes:
><< Seems logical to me that if you are a patient and are a Plaintiff in a
>case, you
> would understand that your medical records would be released -- afterall,
>you are
> bringing a medical case.   >>
>
>If a person is in an accident that is not their fault it does not seem
>entirely fair that they have to give up every bit of their privacy just to be
>reimbursed for their medical bills.  And, it's not just a question of
>disclosing the sensitive medical information to a few people.  Once you're
>forced into court all medical records provided in the course of litigation
>are filed at the courthouse and ANYONE can just ask to see the file AND make
>copies without any questions being asked.  These medical records usually
>include a person's social security number, home address, home phone, date of
>birth, as well as other sensitive personal information.  Including frequent
>errors.  Even if the doctors makes a notation that a person "denies" drug or
>alcohol abuse the question by itself has a negative connotation.   I don't
>disagree that the defendant and their insurer is entitled to the information
>(within limits) but to make it a public record? For all time?  Why should I
>lose my privacy for the rest of my life?
>
>Kendra