How to Request Records From a Obstetrics & Gynecology Doctor
OB/GYN doctors provide reproductive health care, prenatal care, and surgical services. Records include prenatal visit documentation, labor/delivery records, surgical reports, and cancer screening results.
How do I request medical records from a Obstetrics & Gynecology doctor?
To request records from a Obstetrics & Gynecology doctor, submit a signed written request to the provider's records department. Typical processing time is 7-14 business days. Common obstetrics & gynecology record types include Prenatal visit records, Labor and delivery summary, Operative reports (C-section, etc.). Most obstetrics & gynecology practices use EMR systems like epic-emr or athenahealth, which may offer patient portal access for faster electronic delivery.
Expert Tip for Obstetrics & Gynecology Records
Prenatal and delivery records may be split between the OB practice and the hospital. Request both. If you need records for a subsequent pregnancy, ask specifically for the labor/delivery summary and any complication notes.
Step-by-Step: Requesting Obstetrics & Gynecology Records
- 1
Identify the correct office or department
Contact the Obstetrics & Gynecology provider's office and ask for the medical records or health information management (HIM) department. For hospital-based obstetrics & gynecology providers, records may be managed by the hospital HIM department.
- 2
Submit a written records request
Submit a signed authorization form including your full name, date of birth, dates of service, and specific records you need. For obstetrics & gynecology, commonly requested records include: Prenatal visit records, Labor and delivery summary, Operative reports (C-section, etc.).
- 3
Specify the format and delivery method
Request electronic copies if available — most obstetrics & gynecology practices use EMR systems like epic-emr or athenahealth. Electronic delivery is often faster and may be cheaper.
- 4
Follow up on your request
Allow 7-14 business days for processing. If you haven't heard back, follow up with the records department. Under HIPAA, providers must respond within 30 days (some states have shorter deadlines).
What Records to Expect From a Obstetrics & Gynecology Doctor
- Prenatal visit records
- Labor and delivery summary
- Operative reports (C-section, etc.)
- Pap smear/cervical screening results
- Ultrasound reports
- Mammogram results
- Fertility treatment records
EMR Systems Used by Obstetrics & Gynecology Practices
Knowing which EMR system your obstetrics & gynecology provider uses can help you understand how to access your records, including patient portal options.