Greater Sacramento Pedicatric Associates

Review: I have primary care and all medical decision making for my 12 year old son. My ex-husband's new wife (that I was unaware even existed as their relationship and marriage was hidden) took my son to this medical office because he had an achy leg. I became aware of this at a later date and immediately called Greater Sacramento Pediatrics and spoke with the Office Manager, [redacted]. She was beyond rude and told me that if I wanted any information on my son's visit, I needed to pay $15 for records. She went on to say that they will let anyone obtain information/have my son seen if they bring him into their office. When I explained this was in direct violation of HIPAA, she became verbally aggressive and began overtalking me to tell me that she didn't care, this was their "office policy" and she was an owner. I demanded to have my information entered in my son's record, she refused. I need my son's medical information and should not be held hostage to a fee when they are violating my civil rights and government HIPAA compliance.Desired Settlement: I need them to immediately release my son's medical information to me without fee. I did not agree to his treatment and I did not agree to this fee structure and I am the mother and primary care medical decision maker for my 12 year old son. I deserve to know what is happening with my 12 year old son. This office, in particular this office manager/owner, needs to be sanctioned for their immoral practice, violation of civil rights and obstruction to HIPAA compliance.

Business

Response:

Thank you for sending the information that you received from Ms. Christine Kennedy, ID# [redacted]. I cannot bring up this name in our system for 12 years old child or parent.As a general rule, there is $15 charge for release of Medical Information. It is a strict rule if the child is sick and needs help and attention; we should take care of them immediately regardless of the marriage problems of parents. If mother and father have joint custody of the child they can both bring the child to the office. If mother is the only one with custody she should provide us with court papers and we will comply. HIPPA is for protection of patient information and that is very import for us to do. Written request from parents as identified in the chart is necessary to give them medical record as people cannot be identified on the phone. My job is to tell the fact to the parents, and sometimes that is not what they like to hear. I still apologize if she thought I was rude.If you have any questions about this matter, please call our office.Sincerely yours,[redacted]Office Manager