A medical record belongs to the patient. The person or organization that keeps the record, and controls who can access it, is called the “custodian.”

If you are the custodian, you must keep medical records accurate, complete, and private. You also must store them safely, share them properly, keep them for the required amount of time, and destroy them safely when allowed. These rules are in the Standard of Practice: Medical Records Documentation and Management and the Personal Health Information Act.

If you are the patient (or authorized party) and want to see your medical record or ask for a copy:

• If your care was provided at a facility operated by NL Health Services: complete the appropriate NLHS Access to Information Form.
• If your care was provided somewhere else: contact the clinic or office directly. If the Registrant has retired or moved out of the province, you can contact us. We may be able to help you find out where the records are kept.