Health Information Management, also known as the Medical Record Department, is responsible for fulfilling record requests.
How to Obtain a Copy of Your Medical Records
You may appear in person at the Medical Records Department Monday through Friday from 7 am to 4:30 pm. Medical records can be released to any patient or any person who has been given authorization in writing by the patient. You must bring a government issued photo ID in order to pick up records. A valid authorization document must be completed, or the request will be denied. If the authorization is signed by the patient’s legal representative, the authorization must also include a copy of the guardianship papers or durable power of attorney. Typical processing time of a medical record requests is seven to ten business days, depending on the availability of the medical record. To speed up the process of obtaining printed medical records, download and complete the Authorization for Disclosure form and bring it to the Medical Center along with a photo ID. If you have any questions, please refer to the Authorization for Disclosure Tip Sheet or call 573-331-5120.
You may also view your Saint Francis medical records online at no cost through the MyChart patient portal, an online, secure portal that connects you to portions of your medical record in the privacy of your home.
Deceased Records
Medical records of a deceased patient are protected by the HIPAA Privacy Rule for 50 years. The personal representative of the estate of a deceased patient may authorize the release of the patient’s medical records. The personal representative must be appointed by the probate court and must present the documentation of that appointment before records can be released. Please include your telephone number in the event we need to contact you for additional information. Alternatively, a decedent’s personal representative may provide the Health Information Office with a signed affidavit affirming they are the deceased patient’s personal representative in order to obtain the release of a decedent’s medical records.
Medical Record Fees
For medical records being released directly to a healthcare provider’s office or licensed healthcare facility for the purpose of continuity of patient care, there is no charge for records to be released. If records are to be released for personal use or to a third party such as an attorney, standard fees may apply as delineated by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.
21st Century Cures Act
Saint Francis cooperates with the 21st Century Cures Act.
