How Can I Help My Representative Obtain My Medical Records?

When applying for disability benefits, one of the most important pieces of evidence is your medical records. Your medical records provide a detailed picture of your medical history, including any diagnoses, treatments, and medications you have received. As such, it is important that your representative has access to all of your medical records in order to present a strong case for disability benefits. Here are some steps you can take to help your representative obtain all of your medical records:

1. Provide a complete list of healthcare providers

The first step in obtaining your medical records is to provide your representative with a complete list of all healthcare providers you have seen for your medical condition. This should include all doctors, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers that you have visited. Be sure to include the name of the provider, their address and phone number, and the dates of your visits.

2. Sign the necessary release forms

In order for your representative to obtain your medical records, they will need your permission. This means you will need to sign release forms giving your healthcare providers permission to release your records to your representative. Be sure to provide your representative with the necessary forms, and sign them as soon as possible.

3. Follow up with healthcare providers

After you have signed the necessary release forms, your representative will begin the process of obtaining your medical records. However, it is important that you follow up with your healthcare providers to make sure that they have received the request and are sending the records to your representative in a timely manner. You may need to contact your providers multiple times to ensure that your records are sent.

4. Keep a copy of your medical records

Once your representative has obtained your medical records, it is important that you keep a copy for your own records. This will ensure that you have a complete and accurate record of your medical history, and can review the records to make sure that all of the information is correct.

5. Provide updates as needed

If you receive any new medical treatment or testing after your representative has obtained your medical records, be sure to provide updates to your representative as soon as possible. This will ensure that your representative has the most up-to-date information about your medical condition.

Conclusion

Obtaining your medical records is an important step in the process of applying for disability benefits. By providing a complete list of healthcare providers, signing the necessary release forms, following up with your healthcare providers, keeping a copy of your medical records, and providing updates as needed, you can help your representative obtain all of your medical records and present a strong case for disability benefits.