Accessing your medical records is a key part of taking charge of your health. Whether you're managing ongoing care, planning a pregnancy, switching providers, or simply keeping track of your health history, knowing how to access and use your OB/GYN medical records gives you valuable insight and control.
Explore patient resources and information from trusted Dallas OB/GYN doctors and women’s health specialists. North Dallas Women’s Care offers expert obstetrics and gynecology services to support every stage of a woman’s health journey.
At North Dallas Women’s Care, we’re committed to helping patients stay informed and empowered. Here’s everything you need to know about requesting, reviewing, and using your OB/GYN records.
Why Your Medical Records Matter
Your OB/GYN medical records include essential information such as:
- Pap smear and HPV results
- Menstrual and reproductive history
- Ultrasound and imaging reports
- Birth control prescriptions
- Prenatal and postnatal care details
- Fertility evaluations and treatments
- Surgical history (e.g., hysterectomy, laparoscopic procedures)
- Lab work and diagnostic results
Having access to this information helps you:
- Understand your health history
- Prepare for specialist appointments
- Make informed decisions
- Track changes in your reproductive health
- Ensure continuity of care when switching providers
How to Request Your OB/GYN Medical Records
1. Contact Your Provider
Reach out to your OB/GYN clinic—either by phone, through a secure patient portal, or in person. Ask for a Medical Records Request Form or instructions specific to their process.
2. Complete a Release of Information (ROI) Form
This form allows the clinic to legally release your records to you or a third party. Be sure to include:
- Your full name and date of birth
- Dates of service (specific time range if needed)
- Type of records requested (e.g., labs, imaging, full chart)
- Recipient details (yourself or another provider)
- Signature and date
3. Submit Your Request
Send the form by fax, email, or through the patient portal. Some offices also accept mailed or in-person submissions. Be sure to ask about estimated processing times.
Using the NDWC Patient Portal
At North Dallas Women’s Care, patients can conveniently access medical information through our secure patient portal, including:
- Test results
- Appointment summaries
- Prescription history
- Communication with your provider
- Billing and insurance details
If you're not yet registered, ask our front desk or visit our website to sign up.
Is There a Fee?
Most providers offer electronic records free of charge. However, if you request paper copies or need extensive record processing, there may be a small administrative fee. Always ask about costs before finalizing your request.
How to Use Your Medical Records Effectively
Once you have your records, here’s how to put them to good use:
- Review for accuracy – Double-check names, medications, diagnoses, and lab results. Report any errors.
- Share with other providers – If you’re seeing a fertility specialist, primary care physician, or new OB/GYN, provide relevant records to avoid duplicate tests or gaps in care.
- Track long-term health trends – Use your records to monitor menstrual cycles, hormone levels, or recurring symptoms.
- Store securely – Keep digital copies backed up and physical records in a safe location.
Switching OB/GYNs? Here's What You Need
If you’re transferring care to another clinic, request the following documents:
- Recent Pap smear results
- Mammogram or ultrasound imaging
- Prenatal records (if currently pregnant)
- Past surgical history
- List of current medications
- Relevant lab work or biopsy results
Let your new provider know in advance so they can coordinate a seamless transfer.
Your Health, Your Right
Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), you have the legal right to access and obtain copies of your medical records. Clinics must comply with requests within 30 days, and your access cannot be denied without a valid reason.
Need Help Accessing Your Records?
At North Dallas Women’s Care, our team is happy to assist you. Whether you need help logging into the portal or submitting a record request, we’ll guide you through each step with care and confidentiality.
Take Charge of Your Reproductive Health
Having easy access to your OB/GYN medical records is more than just a convenience—it’s an essential part of being an informed, empowered patient. If you haven’t reviewed your records recently, now is the perfect time to request them.
