Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
I went to my doctor and asked for a copy of my health record. When I arrived home I noticed I had another patients medical record. The record shows her name, address, telephone number, diagnosis and much more. Would it be wise to call this person and alert her to the fact the physicians group has provided me with her medical information? She is a workman compensation case according to what I have read.
If you desire, you can contact the woman and let her know what happened, and/or simply return the record to the doctor’s office. Additionally, you can report the incident to a local or state health care patient privacy agency to inform them about the breach in privacy. Most states have laws that forbid medical professionals from disclosing individual’s health care information to unauthorized parties.
