How to request personal records

If you want to know when you had your tonsils out or how many times you’ve visited the chiropractor, you can find this type of information in your protected health information. That's what we call your personal medical records we keep on file. 

Here's how you can ask to see these records. If you need the personal health information of another person, living or deceased, we can help you do that as well.

Where do I get my own records?

You can get your protected health information three ways:

1. Online: Log in to Member Secured Services.  Under the Manage my Plan tab, click Enrollment status, benefits and medical claims. 
2. In your Explanation of Benefits: You may find the information you need on your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) statements. Review printed statements you got in the mail, or online at Member Secured Services.
3. By phone: Call the Customer Service number on the back of your enrollee ID card and we'll help. You’ll need to give your enrollee ID number.

How do I get someone else's records?

First, you need to get permission to view the records.

• If you’re the member’s personal representative, such as a patient advocate, executor, trustee or guardian, you’ll need to show proof. The HIPAA Personal Guidance Chart will tell you what documents you need. Send them to:

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Mail Code X422
600 E. Lafayette Blvd.
Detroit, MI 48226-2998

• If you’re the member’s next of kin, fill out the Affidavit of Next of Kin (PDF) and mail it to the address at the bottom of the form.
  
• A member can give you permission to get their records. They should fill out the Authorization for Use and Disclosure of Protected Health Information form (PDF). Mail or fax it to the address listed in the form’s instructions.

Once you have permission, call Customer Service. If you have access to the member’s ID card, call the number on the back of it. If not, call the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan corporate operator at 313-225-9000 and we'll help you.

Do you need a complete set of records?

The HIPAA designated record set includes a complete copy of your health information and any enrollment, claims processing, payment, case and medical notes. 

Here’s what you need to do to get a copy:

1. If the records you need aren’t yours, follow the instructions above for getting permission.
2. Fill out a Request for Access to Designated Protected Health Information Records (PDF). You’ll get a response within 30 days.