A medical record is a history of someone’s health. Most hospitals and doctor’s offices use electronic health records (EHRs, also called electronic medical records or EMRs). An EHR is a computerized collection of a patient's health records.
A medical record includes information about a person’s:
Usually, doctors can share medical records for kids under 18 years old only if the patient’s parent or legal guardian gives permission. In some situations, though, doctors can share them without that permission (for example, if the child’s health or safety is at risk).
The rules about privacy of medical records are based on a federal law called the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
If you say it’s OK, your child’s EMR usually can be seen by all doctors and departments within the same health care system. For example, if your child’s pediatrician and dermatologist both work at the same hospital, they could share records electronically. But if your child goes to a doctor who works at a different hospital, you may need to ask for those records to be shared.
Parents whose kids are under 18 years old can get copies of most of their child’s medical records. You’ll fill out an authorization form so your doctor knows what information you need. You may want the entire record (for example, if you are changing doctors) or only specific information (such as reports from a surgery or test).
Depending on which state they live in, parents no longer have access to a child's mental health records (like the notes a therapist takes during counseling sessions) when their child is 15 or 16.
You may want to keep an electronic or paper copy of your child’s medical record. This will make it easier to share medical information when needed (for example, with a medical specialist or new doctor, or if your child goes to the emergency room). It also can make it easier to fill out school, camp, and childcare forms.
Reviewed by: Amy W. Anzilotti, MD
Date Reviewed: Jan 10, 2021
