Patient Rights in Healthcare: Accessing Medical Records and Treatment - Internal Medicine

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In the context of patient rights in healthcare, particularly regarding access to medical records and ongoing treatment, it is essential to understand the legal and ethical frameworks that govern these aspects of patient care. Your father's situation highlights several critical issues that many patients and their families face when navigating the healthcare system.

Firstly, regarding the right to access medical records, patients generally have the legal right to obtain copies of their medical records, including test results and treatment plans. In Taiwan, as indicated by the recent declaration from the Taipei City Health Bureau, patients can request copies of their medical records, including examination reports, even if they are willing to pay for them. This right is not limited to residents of Taipei; it applies to all patients under Taiwan's healthcare system. Therefore, your father should be able to request his gastroscopy report from the hospital where he was treated, regardless of his current location or the hospital's policies.

If the hospital is unable to provide the report, there are alternative steps you can take. You can formally request the report in writing, citing your father's right to access his medical information. If the hospital still refuses, you may consider filing a complaint with the local health authority or the National Health Insurance Administration. They can intervene and ensure that the hospital complies with the regulations regarding patient access to medical records.

Regarding your father's ongoing treatment, it is crucial to ensure continuity of care, especially after a significant medical event like a hospitalization for gastrointestinal bleeding and subsequent treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. If he is unable to return to the original hospital for follow-up care and medication refills, he should seek care from another healthcare provider who can access his medical history and provide the necessary prescriptions. In many cases, primary care physicians or specialists can prescribe medications based on previous treatment plans, especially if they have access to the patient's medical records.

In situations where a patient has multiple healthcare providers, it is beneficial to maintain a comprehensive record of all treatments, medications, and test results. This can help new providers understand the patient's medical history and make informed decisions about ongoing care. If your father has difficulty obtaining his records from the previous hospital, he can provide any documentation he has, such as discharge summaries or previous prescriptions, to the new healthcare provider.

Moreover, it is essential for patients and their families to advocate for their rights. If there are concerns about the quality of care or access to necessary medications, do not hesitate to communicate these issues to healthcare providers. Patients have the right to ask questions, seek clarification about their treatment plans, and request alternative options if they feel their needs are not being met.

In summary, your father's rights to access his medical records and receive continuous treatment are protected under healthcare regulations. He should be able to request his gastroscopy report and seek care from another provider who can prescribe the necessary medications. If challenges arise, advocacy and communication with healthcare providers and regulatory bodies are key to ensuring that patient rights are upheld. It is vital to remain proactive in managing healthcare needs and to utilize available resources to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system effectively.