How do I get copies of my Multiple Myeloma medical records

Getting Copies of Your Multiple Myeloma [ID removed]

This is an important practical question—having your own copies of your [ID removed] gives you control over your care and helps you share information with other doctors if needed.

Your Legal Right to Records

You have a legal right to access your [ID removed] This is protected by federal law (HIPAA - Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) and state laws. Healthcare facilities must provide you with copies, though they may charge a reasonable fee for copying and mailing.

How to Request Your Records

Contact the [ID removed] department at each facility where you received care:

1. Call or visit in person - Ask for the "[ID removed] or "Health Information Management" department

2. Submit a written request - Many facilities have a form you can fill out (you can also write a letter)

3. Be specific - Include:

   • Your full name and date of birth
   • Date range of visits/treatment you need records for
   • Specific tests or records you want (pathology reports, imaging, lab results, bone marrow biopsy results, etc.)
   • How you want them delivered (mail, email, or pickup)

4. Allow time - Facilities typically have 30 days to provide records, though it may take longer for complex cases

What Records to Request

For your myeloma care, specifically ask for:

• Pathology reports (bone marrow biopsy results, FISH testing for genetic abnormalities)
• Lab results (CBC, immunoglobulin levels, M protein levels, free light chain assay, kidney function tests)
• Imaging reports (PET/CT, MRI, CT scans)
• Treatment summaries (what drugs you received, doses, dates)
• Genetic testing results (chromosome abnormalities like del(17p), t(4;14), etc.)
• Discharge summaries from any hospitalizations

According to the NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Multiple Myeloma, having your complete records is especially important because "treatment decisions made by a non-myeloma specialist can seriously affect later treatment decisions." Your records help any new doctor understand your complete medical history.

Why This Matters for Your Care

Having copies helps you:

• Get a second opinion - Share with another myeloma specialist
• Track your disease - See how your M protein levels and other markers change over time
• Avoid duplicate testing - Show new doctors what's already been done
• Prepare for appointments - Review your results before seeing your care team
• Participate in clinical trials - Many trials need your complete medical history

If You're Switching Doctors or Cancer Centers

If you're seeing a new oncologist, ask your current care team if they can send records directly to your new doctor—this is often faster than requesting them yourself.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Team

• Where is the [ID removed] department located?
• Is there a form I need to fill out?
• What is the cost for copies?
• How long will it take to get my records?
• Can records be sent electronically to another doctor?
• Do you have a patient portal where I can access my records online?

Many cancer centers now offer patient portals (online systems) where you can view lab results, imaging reports, and other information directly—ask if your facility has this option.

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This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare team for personalized medical advice and decisions.