The Question:
I called my child’s doctor’s office and asked for copies of medical paperwork. The receptionist put me on hold and then said that because Dad has full custody, they could not give me any information about my son. Do I have access to my child’s medical records?
RJ Says:
Do your court orders restrict your access to medical records? If not, then the provider is absolutely wrong.
Under Arizona law, unless otherwise provided by court order, both parents are entitled to equal access to documents and information concerning the child’s health. That includes medical records. You are entitled to request those records directly from the custodian of the records or from the other parent.
Any parent who attempts to restrict the release of documents by the custodian without a prior court order can be subject to sanctions.
The provider needs to be educated. A strongly worded letter from an attorney skilled and experienced in this field may help convince the provider to stop resisting.
An experienced family law attorney can help you review your orders, determine whether your access has been restricted, and take steps to obtain the records you are entitled to receive. Most of us offer free 30-minute consultations, in which your matter can be discussed in detail.
Call (602) 256-7575 to schedule your consultation with an experienced Phoenix family law attorney.