Request health information or health records

The Access and Disclosure team in Health Records specializes in processing requests for health information according to Alberta’s Health Information Act.

How to request your own health records

1. Fill out the Health information access request form. See instructions on page 1.

2. Submit the completed form and copy of ID to the contact information included on the request form as well as at the bottom of this page.

   • Electronically through MyChart, if you have set up your access.
   • MyChart is a secure, online tool to access your health information. For information and how to sign up, read Getting Ready for MyChart.

   To request health information on behalf of another person, please provide proof of authority to request the information. (eg. written authorization, Authorizing a representative form, Consent to disclose health Information, Guardianship, Power of Attorney, etc.)

   We will contact you if we need more information after we receive your request. In accordance with the Health Information Act, you can expect a response from us within 30 days.

Third party (insurance agent, lawyer, etc.)

Requests from third parties must include the following:

• A request letter outlining the information needed.
• Consent to disclose health information form that complies with section 34 of the Health Information Act or Authorizing a representative health information act form from the patient to act or obtain copies on their behalf.
• Any applicable supporting documentation whenever another individual is signing on behalf of the patient. (e.g., Guardianship Order, Power of Attorney, Grant of Administration, etc.)

Health care provider

If you are currently involved in the care and treatment of a patient and require their health information for the purpose of providing health services, access the information electronically through the appropriate clinical information system.

If the information does not reside there or in Netcare, or you do not have access to these systems, you can submit a request for health information. Complete the Health care provider request for use and disclosure of health information form.

Law enforcement

Requests from law enforcement must include one of the following:

• A Consent to disclose health information form that complies with Section 34 of the Health Information Act (HIA).
• A court order requiring covenant to produce the information or
• Legislative authority under the HIA. The Request for health information by law enforcement agency can be used to submit a request.
   

External Health information request portal

Third parties can submit a health information request through the External health information request portal.

The portal serves as a secure electronic hub, supporting health information requests from submission through to record delivery. The portal is intended for eligible requesters, including:

• Lawyers and legal representatives
• Insurance companies
• Government agencies
• Law enforcement agencies
• Regulatory bodies
• Health care providers without access to the Provider Portal
• Out-of-province health care providers
• Other authorized third parties

This portal is a secure online platform that allows eligible third-party requesters to:

• Submit requests for health information electronically
• Upload consent forms and supporting documentation
• Download response packages and invoices directly
• Track the status of current and past requests
• Securely access records once they have been released

See the reference guide on instructions on how to use the portal.

Request to correct or amend health information 

If you believe there is a mistake or error in your health information, you may request to correct or amend your health information as per section 13 of the Health Information Act.

How to request correction or amendment of your health information

1. Fill out the Request to Correct or Amend Health Information Health Information Act form and provide supporting documentation.
   1. Include a copy of the health information you want to be corrected/amended (e.g., copy of x-ray reports, laboratory tests, consult, discharge summary, etc.)
   2. Include a copy of one piece of photo ID or two pieces of non-photo ID. Copies of ID will be confidentially destroyed after verification. 
2. Submit the documents to the contact information at the bottom of this page.
3. If you are requesting on behalf of another person, please have that person complete the Authorizing a Representative Health Information Act form or Consent to Disclose Health Information.
4. We will contact you if we need more information after we receive your request. In accordance with the Health Information Act, you can expect a response from us within 30 days.
    

Delivery of Health Information

Health information will be sent using electronic delivery methods (e.g. MyChart, secure file transfer, encrypted email) whenever possible. This is often the fastest and most convenient way to receive your records.

Payment (Do not send pre-payment with your request.)

An invoice with payment instructions will be included when copies of your health information have been provided to you.
A basic fee of $25.00 is applied to health information requests (formal and informal) as permitted by the Health Information Act (HIA).
If physical copies of information are being provided, the fee includes up to 100 printed pages. There may be other charges depending on the type of information requested, as outlined in the Full Fee Schedule of the Health Information Regulation of the HIA. Visit the Alberta Government website to view the full schedule.

Covenant Health Audit Logs

To request a copy of who has viewed your electronic health information:

• Fill and sign the Audit Log Request form.
• Attach a copy of the required identification. 
• When requesting another individual's health information, include applicable supporting documentation (e.g., Guardianship Order, Power of Attorney, Grant of Administration, etc.). 

Netcare Audit Logs

You may request information on who has viewed your electronic health information stored in the Alberta Netcare system by contacting Alberta Health at 1-780-422-5111. Click here for More information or to access the form.