The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is a federal law that governs the privacy and security of your health information. HIPAA sets rules for who can see your health information. It also gives you rights to view and obtain a copy of your health information and medical records, which is called the individual right of access. You can find additional information here.
Your medical records can help you understand, advocate for, and manage your healthcare. These records may include your health history, appointment notes, prescription history, treatments, test results, immunizations, imaging scans, etc. Access to your your medical records can help you:
A patient portal is a secure website that gives you access to your personal health information, and most of the reports in your medical records, called an Electronic Medical Record (EMR). You may also be able to view test results and medical notes, request prescription refills, schedule appointments, and send a message your healthcare team through the patient portal. You may have different patient portals for the different doctors you see.
