5 Red Flags in Your Medical Record That Deserve a Correction

Your medical record follows you everywhere. Inaccurate information can affect future care, insurance coverage, and how providers perceive you. These errors demand immediate correction.

1. Incorrect Medication Lists or Allergies

The danger: Wrong information can lead to dangerous drug interactions or prevent you from getting needed medications.

Action needed: Request immediate correction if any medication, dosage, or allergy information is wrong. This is a safety issue.

2. Misrepresented Symptoms or Complaints

Red flag examples: “Patient claims severe pain” instead of “Patient reports severe pain” or minimizing your described symptoms.

Why it matters: This language suggests doubt about your credibility and can influence how future providers treat you.

3. Incorrect Social History

Watch for: Wrong information about smoking, drinking, drug use, or family history. Sometimes providers make assumptions or copy old records.

The impact: This information affects treatment decisions and risk assessments. Accuracy is crucial for proper care.

4. Psychiatric Labels Without Proper Evaluation

Be alert for: Diagnoses like “anxiety” or “depression” added without discussion, especially when used to explain physical symptoms.

The problem: These labels can lead to future providers dismissing physical complaints as psychological without investigation.

5. Inaccurate Test Results or Dates

Check carefully: Lab values, imaging results, and procedure dates. Copying errors happen more than you’d think.

Why it’s serious: Wrong test results can lead to inappropriate treatment or missed diagnoses in the future.

How to Request Corrections:

1. Write a formal letter to the medical records department
2. Include specific details about what’s incorrect and what the correct information should be
3. Provide supporting documentation when possible
4. Keep copies of all correspondence

Your Right: Under HIPAA, you have the right to request amendments to your medical record. Providers must respond within 60 days.

Pro Tip: Review your records after every appointment. It’s easier to correct errors promptly than to fix them months later.