Most hospitals and providers in each state follow a similar procedure when it comes to requesting documents. It usually starts with a written or verbal request. "Normally, one would simply phone the healthcare provider and get a copy of the record, and then pick it up after signing a release for the documents," Ennis said. However, if you want complete copies of your medical records, a release is required before they will be sent over. The person who requested the records should sign both a release for their use and also a form authorizing release of the information. The release needs to include your name as well as that of any other people mentioned in the records. It also must include permission for the hospital to share your information within its network and with other entities as specified on the release form. Hospitals and doctors' offices may have different procedures regarding whether or not you have to pay to obtain your own records. Some will charge a fee while others may allow you to download them for free. Find out before you leave the facility what the policy is for releases and copying costs. Medical records can be very useful to show treatment outcomes for patients. They can also help doctors identify patterns in patients' conditions that may lead to additional testing or treatments. Knowing this, it isn't surprising that medical professionals often request records about their patients.