You Don’t Have To Release Your Entire Medical Record
If you received medical attention due to an accident injury, you may need to use part of your medical record to prove your need for financial recovery. That said, you may not be required to release your entire medical history. Naturally, when a prior injury is exacerbated due to the accident, that information may need to be included, but do not blindly turn over your healthcare files without talking to an attorney first.
Accidents in Clearwater, Hudson, or Tampa can lead to hospital stays, doctor appointments, and long treatment plans in order for a person to physically heal. To understand how your medical expenses could be handled, talk to a lawyer. Compensation could be possible, and there are protections for you as you access compensatory damages. Turning over all the personal information a Florida insurance adjuster asks for may not be required.
HIPAA Protections Since 1996
In the mid-1990s, there was a federal law enacted to protect the personal health information of patients. You need to give consent for your health information to be released under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Because it is a federal law, this is a protection that exists in every US state, so you have a right to be informed about who has access to your health history in the state of Florida.
If an insurance adjuster contacts you about the need to look over your medical records before offering you a financial settlement, you do not have to grant them the power to look over your entire medical history. When you work with an attorney, they will put your interests first, including sharing the relevant information with insurance companies. When it comes to your medical records, this will likely include information directly related to your accident injuries and any pre-existing conditions that were aggravated by the injurious event and now need care.
A Florida Lawyer Has the Experience You Need
There are many factors to consider when navigating a settlement. Your medical records could be a key piece of documentation, but photos, witness accounts, past pay statements, and other items may also need to be gathered in order for you to be compensated fairly and correctly. You do not have to learn about state personal injury law. Instead, hire a Florida personal injury lawyer who has the experience and knowledge you need. From there, you can focus on healing while your attorney fights for the best damage recovery package possible.
Has an insurance representative asked you for your medical record? Before turning over documentation, connect with a legal expert. After a Florida accident injury, you need the attorneys at Roman & Roman fighting for your rights. A legal professional can negotiate with an insurance adjuster on your behalf, and knowledgeable attorneys have the experience to fully understand the worth of your claim and know what steps you should take to strengthen your case. We know what documentation is required, our talented lawyers have over 100 years of combined personal injury experience. Schedule your no-obligation, free consultation today.
