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Copying Charges
How much can I charge for medical records in Alabama?
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As a general rule, a reasonable charge can be made for the expense of reproduction and delivery of the medical records. Under current Alabama law, physicians are entitled to “the reasonable costs of reproducing the medical records.” Such costs are not to exceed one dollar ($1.00) for each of the first 25 pages, not more than fifty cents ($.50) for each page in excess of 25 pages and a search fee of five dollars ($5.00). Also, if such copies of records are mailed, the physician may charge the actual costs of mailing the medical records. Additionally, physicians may charge the actual costs of reproducing x-rays and other special medical records. Ala. Code § 12-21-6.1. It is recommended that a healthcare provider not charge his/her patients or their personal representatives for these costs.
The party requesting the patient’s records is responsible for the reasonable costs of copying and mailing. However, this does not apply to records requested in order to make or complete an application for a disability benefits program. Payment of the cost may be requested by the physician prior to the records being furnished. However, do not withhold medical information for nonpayment of copying costs, especially if that information is needed to provide care and treatment to the patient. In addition, the record may not be “held hostage” for nonpayment of a medical bill.
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