Can I legally be charged for my original x-rays if I want to take them to another Dr. for 2nd opinion?
957370
In most states the doctor 'owns' the xrays and is responsible for maintaining them.  The patient has the right to the information contained in the xrays (e.g. a written report and/or a copy of the films).  The doctor has the right to charge a reasonable fee to cover expenses for providing copies of the films.  \n\nHope this helps you.  Best wishes.
525707
If you are in need, go to a university hospital, I have done it many times, if you need an x-ray they will take them, worse case you will have to fill out indigent paperwork if you have no money!
187790
can' tell you. get a 2nd opinion
918011
This doesn't sound legit.  This is a way for him to pay for the trip.  If he called in a specialist to read an xray or a test result , that would be a different story.
741065
Doctors are under a legal obligation to make sure your records are accessible and intact after they retire, go out of business or die.\n\nYou should have been notified that your records were transferred, I believe this would fall under HIPPA laws, which are Federal.\n\nBy the tone of your question, I feel you feel violated because of the transfer of your file.  And I can understand that.  But what would have been a better option?  The only other option he could have had would be to destroy your file and then you would be left with an incomplete medical history which could prove detrimental to future diagnosis.\n\nUnder current laws the doctor is obligated to maintain your history, yet he has the right to retire.  I personally would not want my medical records kept in my retired docs garage, then if I needed them, my 90 year old former doctor (or his children) to go out and search moldy boxes to find my records.\n\nWhen you find another primary physician, ask them to assist you in contacting the facility where your records are currently being kept and to get a full and complete file transferred to your new docs.
133461
Have you gotten a second opinion from another specialist on your condition.  If they conclude it was a mistake, then you have a better case.  At that point, you should contact a medical malpractice attorney.  You can get referral from your local bar association (attorney).
189881
Go to the doctor, hospital, or institution in possision of them and sign a "release of information" for them for your own records. They may or may not charge for the ink but the records are yours by law. The link below is applicable in any state.
776195
If i were you I would call the hospital and talk to someone in patient accounts. i had a friend who was told they had a brain anurism (sp?) and they shipped him to another hospital etc etc and racked up alot of bills and the wife called and ended up they didnt have to pay it. Chances are you will have to pay for the first one though, it was part of your treatment.
789746
Most cases it is free. Depending on why you want it. Call your local hospital or a lawyer..They should be able to help you.
980524
I have no idea what that is, but like with anything, if you feel you need a second opinion then go get it.  It's your health and we all know doctors aren't right all the time.
905578
yes. it's one of your patient's rights to have a copy of your medical record.  they may charge you a fee.
89865
Listen to your dentist, or if you don't trust him, get a second opinion from another dentist.
826966
get a second opinion. Sounds  dangerous to me!
302924
Capitation is not a fixed fee. It is where you are capitated to.. For instance - Your Primary Dr. is captiated to Jefferson Hospital. Then, when you need an MRI or a CAT Scan or even an X-Ray you are forced to go to Jefferson Hospital - you have no other option.. Unless of course you changed your primary care Dr. Then wherever he is capitated to - so are you.
267224
Most people do not realize that when you have an x-ray, the facility that took the x-rays own the films, not you.  This is by federal law.  The facility must keep custodianship/records for 7 years after the exam.  Most facilities will allow you to "borrow" your films to take for a second opinion or to a specialist.  But, once the films are no longer needed, they are to go back to the facility there were taken.  If your films are lost after you have "borrowed" them, the facility will charge you reprinting fees if that is available.  You can sign a release form at the imaging facility where you had your x-rays.  Call that facility and ask what is required from you.
422932
HIPAA laws say that you are obligated to a copy of your medical records.  Call your doctor's office and they should comply (some may charge you a copy fee).
390485
Get a second opinion from someone who knows.