Doc won't give me my blood results

[btoma32]

I am new to this whole thing and went through the blood test, physicals and interviews. I even read Nelson Vergel's book before I got started. That all being said, my Doc won't give me the blood test results. I am curious as to where I'm at and I want to bring that info to people who know FAR more about this then me (Like ya'll). Anyone else encounter this prob. I feel like he just stuck me on the same routine as everyone else

[jimmyinkedup]

Not at all. What lab was used? I get my blood work results directly from the lab where I have my blood drawn. They email them directly to me (im not on trt, this is just from my regular physicals with my Dr or any blood work he orders). If you know the lab you can most certainly get the results and I have a hard time believing it is legal for the Doc not to give you the results but then again I do not know legally if he is obligated too. If not thats absurd but then again we are talking about the law so that wouldnt be unusual at all now would it?

[btoma32]

I went to a clinic and they drew the blood there. I talked to a few other people and all had the same results and prescribed the same protocol. They feel great while I feel exactly the same. I think the clinic is afraid Id shop around but they're not exactly helpful. They just keep saying that its illegal to give me my own blood test results. huh? Guess I gotta find a new clinic

[Who_Am_I]

I went to a clinic and they drew the blood there. I talked to a few other people and all had the same results and prescribed the same protocol. They feel great while I feel exactly the same. I think the clinic is afraid Id shop around but they're not exactly helpful. They just keep saying that its illegal to give me my own blood test results. huh? Guess I gotta find a new clinic

You would most likely have to fill out a HIPAA release and pay fee etc. But you do have a right to your own records.

[Beethoven]

You would most likely have to fill out a HIPAA release and pay fee etc. But you do have a right to your own records.

That is correct. I go straight to the lab. Quest labs for example have an app you can download which helps you set up appts and most importantly, send the results to your app. And they are there for you to print or whatever. That being said, he has to release all your records if you asked him to. He cannot give them to anyone else other than you.

[btoma32]

ok thanks! seems like they are making it a lot more difficult then it needs to be. I'll work on my patience

[lovbyts]

Ive never had to fill out anything. I ask the doctor or the front desk and they make me a copy. Sounds like a scam to me. Probably charging you for blood work that was never actually tested.

I would definitely follow through though and if things dont check out start a class action law suite.

[almostgone]

I am new to this whole thing and went through the blood test, physicals and interviews. I even read Nelson Vergel's book before I got started. That all being said, my Doc won't give me the blood test results. I am curious as to where I'm at and I want to bring that info to people who know FAR more about this then me (Like ya'll). Anyone else encounter this prob. I feel like he just stuck me on the same routine as everyone else

Instead of asking the Dr., try asking one of the girls at the desk. I've never had any physician refuse to give me a copy of my medical records or lab work. If it is a large file, I have had to pay like .08 per page to cover their cost of the copies.

[tdoe11]

If I ever had a doc with hold anything for me, especially something like blood work I would be out and he would be getting a piece of my mind. Sounds like he has a real God complex, and control issues.

I am very proactive in my health. You and your doctor should always BOTH be comfortable with all treatments. Ditch this schmuck, doctors are a dime a dozen my friend.

[Simon1972]

i had the same issue a few years back- they told me "privacy issues"which is complete crap,

you paid for the tests, its your blood, its your property.

go back and demand the results- become vocal and cause a scene if you must- they have absolutely no reason to withold your own personal property from you.

you should have a copy of your results as a matter of course to file at home- this is useful for future litigation should it ever arise that your dr was neglegent or misread your results. As well as on forwarding to a new dr given the poor performance of the dr/contractor you employed.

after all, he is just a contractor you engaged.

[lovbyts]

i had the same issue a few years back- they told me "privacy issues"which is complete crap,

you paid for the tests, its your blood, its your property.

go back and demand the results- become vocal and cause a scene if you must- they have absolutely no reason to withold your own personal property from you.

you should have a copy of your results as a matter of course to file at home- this is useful for future litigation should it ever arise that your dr was neglegent or misread your results. As well as on forwarding to a new dr given the poor performance of the dr/contractor you employed.

after all, he is just a contractor you engaged.

^^^ agree and as a matter of fact every test I get now is available to me via my online account and goes back probably 10 years.

[bigdil511]

Dude totally agree it's your blood! Get the damn results where do you live btw? I'm curious bc I have had issues in the past with quest, in NY they can't give you results directly they have to go through the drs office who prescribed the bw.

[Simon1972]

Dude totally agree it's your blood! Get the damn results where do you live btw? I'm curious bc I have had issues in the past with quest, in NY they can't give you results directly they have to go through the drs office who prescribed the bw.

After your consult you have every right to a copy of your bloods. Mine gives me a copy before my consult so I can digest it and formulate questions before I see him.

[almostgone]

^^^ agree and as a matter of fact every test I get now is available to me via my online account and goes back probably 10 years.

My DR's office recently set up a portal for their patients and you can access your records, change appointments etc. online. Kind of cool, I thought.

[btoma32]

Bigdil, I'm in Boston and I think our laws are real similar (and absurd) as those in NY. I'm going to try again. There's not a lot of knowledgeable docs here or maybe their hands are just tied. Very few options

[Low Testosterone]

In several states the lab cannot give you a copy of your blood results, they can only be given by the physician and the law does not require the physician to give them to you. Bad law? Sure, but when you continue to vote for healthcare regulation this is the kind of stuff you get. Not to get all political but that is the case. Also, the online lab test providers are restricted as well. If you live in certain states an online lab will not touch you.

[kelkel]

I won't even see the doc until I have my BW in hand ahead of time. I want to analyze it first and prepare for my appointment. Christ, I'd have to move to another state!

[thisAngelBites]

Even though Massachusetts foolishly made it illegal (like NY) to order your own blood work, this does not mean they can withhold your test results.

I think HIPAA gave Americans the rights to see and get copies of their medical records. I would send a request in writing (you might have to pay the copy charge someone mentioned above) saying that you would like a copy of your blood work as required by HIPAA.

I had a quick look at the Health and Human Services website, and it seems most providers have to allow you access to your medical records. If they do not comply, you can file a formal complaint.

It looks like the law was also recently amended such that laboratories can release test results to you, although some states (including Massachusetts) still require that the physician approve this. See: HHS strengthens patients’ right to access lab test reports

and also see,

Guidance Materials for Consumers

click the link near the bottom entitled What Rights Does the Privacy Rule Give Me Over My Health Information.

[bigdil511]

They must've changed it recently because in the last couple years I've had lab work done and they said I had to get it through my doctors office that they couldn't give it to me directly so that's good if they change that though

[Low Testosterone]

Even though Massachusetts foolishly made it illegal (like NY) to order your own blood work, this does not mean they can withhold your test results.

I think HIPAA gave Americans the rights to see and get copies of their medical records. I would send a request in writing (you might have to pay the copy charge someone mentioned above) saying that you would like a copy of your blood work as required by HIPAA.

I had a quick look at the Health and Human Services website, and it seems most providers have to allow you access to your medical records. If they do not comply, you can file a formal complaint.

It looks like the law was also recently amended such that laboratories can release test results to you, although some states (including Massachusetts) still require that the physician approve this. See: HHS strengthens patients’ right to access lab test reports

and also see,

Guidance Materials for Consumers

click the link near the bottom entitled What Rights Does the Privacy Rule Give Me Over My Health Information.

While HIPAA does entitle you to your blood work, this doesn't mean a lab has to hand it directly to you and in some cases they cannot. If the law wanted to, it can still make it very difficult for you to get your results. As long as there is a way for you to get them that's all that the law cares about, it doesn't mean it has to be easy. Remember, the same people that put these laws in place are the same ones that cannot control their own VA. And I couldn't help it but when I opened the first link above, the very first thing that stood out was the name Kathleen Sebelius.

[almostgone]

I guess it is considered underhanded, but if necessary, you could try telling the DR's office you need copies of your labs for your insurance company. I would imagine they have done this in the past for patients receiving hormone replacement.
It's ridiculous that people have to resort to this to receive copies of their own medical records.

[thisAngelBites]

While HIPAA does entitle you to your blood work, this doesn't mean a lab has to hand it directly to you and in some cases they cannot. If the law wanted to, it can still make it very difficult for you to get your results. As long as there is a way for you to get them that's all that the law cares about, it doesn't mean it has to be easy. Remember, the same people that put these laws in place are the same ones that cannot control their own VA. And I couldn't help it but when I opened the first link above, the very first thing that stood out was the name Kathleen Sebelius.

I don't personally want to get bogged down in whose name is on the page, or the political aspects.

Yes, a lab doesn't have to give the results to you - it depends on the state. In Massachusetts, a lab needs physician approval to give results to the patient, but in some other states they do not.

I haven't looked at HIPAA directly, and I guess that is what is needed, but I am sure that will be onerous. The stuff I have looked at says, in effect, that you are allowed to see your blood work, period (so go and take a photo with your mobile) and you are entitled to copies it (subject to copying fee and 30 day period the provider has to respond to such requests, etc.).

There are some ways the info can be legally withheld that I saw that I am sure are intended to cover some grey areas. Psychotherapy notes may be withheld, and tests done by non-CLIA labs (which seems to mainly be labs that do tests for researchers rathers than for physicians or patients, so tests that were done not as part of a patient work up anyway), and it looks like prisons also do not have release results.

I agree that people can always try to make things difficult, but I would bet that if you approach the place in a professional way (as opposed to having a tantrum and making demands) and say you would like to see your test results that your are entitled to under HIPAA they will comply. If they do not comply, you can re-state that you know you are entitled to your results, and that if they do not comply with the law, you will have to file a complaint under HIPAA, and then one should do so if the medical provider really does not accede with the request.

The majority of physicians are not going to want to deal with the cheap hell of a patient who will make trouble if they do not receive their test results, and they will be likely to give the results and then basically refuse to serve the patient further. The patient can make the HIPAA complaint and can also plaster the internet with negative reviews of the physician who would not release blood work the patient was entitled to have in violation of HIPAA, which I am sure a physician of just average intelligence would realise.

Additionally, malpractice insurers may well care about the number of HIPAA complaints a physician receives, and a physician may care about that as a result.

Undoubtedly there will be a handful of people for whatever reason (ignorance of the law, or desire to disincent the patient from seeking medical services elsewhere, or desire to have control over what they see as a demanding patient) will still refuse, and in that case, the patient should avail themselves of their legal rights under HIPAA.

[Low Testosterone]

I guess it is considered underhanded, but if necessary, you could try telling the DR's office you need copies of your labs for your insurance company. I would imagine they have done this in the past for patients receiving hormone replacement.
It's ridiculous that people have to resort to this to receive copies of their own medical records.

In that case the response would be, sure no problem, who's your insurance provider? We'll fax those over.

[Low Testosterone]

I don't personally want to get bogged down in whose name is on the page, or the political aspects.

Yes, a lab doesn't have to give the results to you - it depends on the state. In Massachusetts, a lab needs physician approval to give results to the patient, but in some other states they do not.

I haven't looked at HIPAA directly, and I guess that is what is needed, but I am sure that will be onerous. The stuff I have looked at says, in effect, that you are allowed to see your blood work, period (so go and take a photo with your mobile) and you are entitled to copies it (subject to copying fee and 30 day period the provider has to respond to such requests, etc.).

There are some ways the info can be legally withheld that I saw that I am sure are intended to cover some grey areas. Psychotherapy notes may be withheld, and tests done by non-CLIA labs (which seems to mainly be labs that do tests for researchers rathers than for physicians or patients, so tests that were done not as part of a patient work up anyway), and it looks like prisons also do not have release results.

I agree that people can always try to make things difficult, but I would bet that if you approach the place in a professional way (as opposed to having a tantrum and making demands) and say you would like to see your test results that your are entitled to under HIPAA they will comply. If they do not comply, you can re-state that you know you are entitled to your results, and that if they do not comply with the law, you will have to file a complaint under HIPAA, and then one should do so if the medical provider really does not accede with the request.

The majority of physicians are not going to want to deal with the cheap hell of a patient who will make trouble if they do not receive their test results, and they will be likely to give the results and then basically refuse to serve the patient further. The patient can make the HIPAA complaint and can also plaster the internet with negative reviews of the physician who would not release blood work the patient was entitled to have in violation of HIPAA, which I am sure a physician of just average intelligence would realise.

Additionally, malpractice insurers may well care about the number of HIPAA complaints a physician receives, and a physician may care about that as a result.

Undoubtedly there will be a handful of people for whatever reason (ignorance of the law, or desire to disincent the patient from seeking medical services elsewhere, or desire to have control over what they see as a demanding patient) will still refuse, and in that case, the patient should avail themselves of their legal rights under HIPAA.

The name comment was just used (on my end) to point out things aren't as they always seem on the surface.

And yes, you are legally entitled. My comments were simply referring to that being entitled doesn't mean it's always going to be easy or fast. Should it be easy and fast? Yes, and it's often ridiculous when it's not. It's nothing more than a control thing, that's all.

And you could be right regarding being professional and not throwing a tantrum. Sadly, most throw tantrums. There are two things a patient can say that are all but guaranteed to make them look like an idiot to their doctor and make him/her far less eager to help them:

1. I know my body
2. I have rights

Complaints filed, that's a tough one. You're right, no doctor wants them filed but insurance providers are generally pretty aware of how unreasonable patients can be.

[btoma32]

Doc did finally get back to me. Went over everything on the phone and wants to change my presciptions. He says that his secretary was wrong and that I can pick it up from him directly. He did reiterate that the lab can't give it out, even to me, but that he could. I'll be going in Monday. Thx for all the help! Been here just a short time but have learned a TON. Really informative.

[thisAngelBites]

You're right, no doctor wants them filed but insurance providers are generally pretty aware of how unreasonable patients can be.

Yeah, those super unreasonable patients who expect their physician to follow the law.

[Low Testosterone]

Yeah, those super unreasonable patients who expect their physician to follow the law.

Come on now Bites, I'm not being that difficult am I?
There are plenty of patients who will file complaints and grievances when they simply don't get their way. By "get their way" I'm referring to not being prescribed the meds they had predetermined themselves they needed/wanted. Had to wait in a waiting room any length of time. Could not get an appointment when they wanted. Found out the issue they thought they had didn't really exist or that it was something else. People will file all sorts of complaints for all types of nonsense. Do those complaints ever amount to anything? Not usually but they're still a headache that sometimes has to be dealt with and takes time away from actually being a doctor.

[Who_Am_I]

Come on now Bites, I'm not being that difficult am I?
There are plenty of patients who will file complaints and grievances when they simply don't get their way. By "get their way" I'm referring to not being prescribed the meds they had predetermined themselves they needed/wanted. Had to wait in a waiting room any length of time. Could not get an appointment when they wanted. Found out the issue they thought they had didn't really exist or that it was something else. People will file all sorts of complaints for all types of nonsense. Do those complaints ever amount to anything? Not usually but they're still a headache that sometimes has to be dealt with and takes time away from actually being a doctor.

x1000

[almostgone]

In that case the response would be, sure no problem, who's your insurance provider? We'll fax those over.

LOL, been there. Told them they didn't go through and they provided copies. True story. The insurance company was blaming the Drs. office for the records not coming through and the Drs. office had a fax confirmation, so I requested copies and sent them in.

Of course, the origin of all the problems was that after 14 months or so, BCBS said they didn't receive 2 labs showing subnormal values.

I'm sure each situation can be slightly different and am only posting what has been my experience.

OP, I'm glad you got.your lab values.

[thisAngelBites]

Come on now Bites, I'm not being that difficult am I?
There are plenty of patients who will file complaints and grievances when they simply don't get their way. By "get their way" I'm referring to not being prescribed the meds they had predetermined themselves they needed/wanted. Had to wait in a waiting room any length of time. Could not get an appointment when they wanted. Found out the issue they thought they had didn't really exist or that it was something else. People will file all sorts of complaints for all types of nonsense. Do those complaints ever amount to anything? Not usually but they're still a headache that sometimes has to be dealt with and takes time away from actually being a doctor.

I am only responding because you keep moving the goalposts, and I'm okay with that, but I am going to respond to it because lots of people look at these posts and get information from them, and it's not just a private discussion between two people.

We were not actually discussing patients making crazy, unreasonable demands of their doctor - we were talking about patients making very reasonable requests for information to which they are legally entitled and ignorant or assholian doctors depriving them of that information. So really, the comment was tangential. I don't even understand why you made that comment, to be honest.

Then you tried to minimise the suggestion that people avail themselves of their legal remedies (and that malpractice insurance companies might care about complaints) when some doctor tries to pull that crap. You intimated that malpractice insurance companies don't really care about patient complaints because patients make unrreasonable complaints.

I attempted to jokingly point out that one is really not being an unreasonable patient when one complains that a doctor is in flagrant violation of the law. I doubt insurance companies are indifferent to physicians breaking the law. I am really not comfortable with the readers of this post remotely getting the idea that it is a complete waste of time reporting their doctors when they break the law, and possibly being discouraged from making such reports.

I never made any claim whatsoever that patients do not make frivolous complaints sometimes - that's an obvious truth. Is that what you think I was saying? I am saying that I don't see what that has to do with an extremely reasonable complaint such as the one being discussed here. That is all I am saying - is that what you are disagreeing with?