You asked why a patient cannot obtain a copy of his medical records directly from a hospital, but must instead get them from a physician's office.

State law does allow a person to obtain a copy of his medical records from a hospital (CGS § 4-104). The law requires each private or public hospital to allow a patient or his physician or authorized attorney to examine, after discharge, the hospital record. These records include the history, bedside notes, charts, pictures, and plates kept in connection with the treatment of the patient and the hospital must allow for copying of such information. A patient who makes a written application for such records to a hospital and is denied them can file a written motion to the Superior Court for disclosure of the records (§ 4-105).

Another state law provides that patients can obtain copies of their health records from health care institutions (which includes hospitals) at a cost of no more than 65 cents per page. This charge includes research, handling, and related expenses. The request must be in writing and made by the patient or his attorney or authorized representative. The health record includes copies of bills, laboratory reports, prescriptions and other technical information used in assessing the patient's health condition. (§ 19a-490b)).

JK: ts