Have you received care and would you like to access your medical records, for example, for a second opinion, insurance, or legal dispute? Healthcare providers are required to provide medical information, but sometimes this is delayed or denied. This article explains how to request your medical records and what legal steps you can take if you are unable to do so.
1. Your right to inspect and obtain a copy of your medical file
According to Article 7:456 of the Dutch Civil Code and the Medical Treatment Agreement Act (WGBO), you as a patient have the right to:
✅ View your complete medical file.
✅ Receive a copy of your medical records.
✅ Request a correction or addition if data is incorrect.
✅ To have your file destroyed (unless there is a legal obligation to retain it).
💡 Please note: The healthcare provider may not charge a fee for this, unless you request copies multiple times.
2. How do you request a medical report?
You can request your medical data by:
1️⃣ Send a written request to your doctor, hospital or healthcare institution.
2️⃣ Ask your GP or specialist to provide the file immediately.
3️⃣ Via a patient portal (many hospitals and general practitioners offer digital access via, for example, MijnGezondheid.net).
📌 Tip: Always request your medical data in writing and keep a copy of your request.
3. What if the care provider refuses?
Sometimes a healthcare provider refuses (partially) to provide medical reports. This can happen in the following cases:
❌ When it comes to notes from the doctor himself (such as personal notes).
❌ If sharing data harms the privacy of others (for example, psychological reports with information about family members).
❌ If the data could seriously harm the patient (for example, in the case of psychiatric patients, a doctor may temporarily withhold certain information).
🔹 What can you do if your request is denied?
- Step 1: Request a reasoned refusal in writing.
- Step 2: File a complaint with the healthcare institution's complaints officer.
- Step 3: Contact the Dutch Data Protection Authority (AP) if your privacy rights are violated.
- Step 4: Initiate legal proceedings through the court if the care provider continues to refuse.
4. Medical reporting for legal or insurance purposes
Do you need a medical report for disability insurance, a personal injury claim, or a UWV assessment, for example? Then you can:
📌 Engage an independent physician for a medical assessment.
📌 Have your lawyer or insurer request your medical file.
📌 Enforce through the court that a healthcare provider provides the report.
Conclusion
As a patient, you have the right to access and receive a copy of your medical records. If a healthcare provider refuses to provide these, you can take action through the complaints procedure or even through the courts. Always submit your request in writing and be aware of your rights!
