Legal Question in Personal Injury in Tennessee

Release of Medical Records and Diagnosis

I fell and broke and dislocated my wrist aboard a cruise ship, at the time of fall we were asea. Injury was first treated on a ER basis in Aruba and I was advised to see an orthopedic surgeon asap when I got home. Surgery was done here in Knoxville, TN and a fixator was inserted in my wrist.

I am in litigation over the slip and fall situation, however my problem is that the local doctor who performed the surgery refuses to release medical records and/or give anytime of longterm diagnosis on my wrist. Wrist is deformed and has limited rotation, stiffness of fingers and arthiritis like pain not to mention the scars from fixator. I went to see the Dr because of this and tried to get him to talk to me, give me an idea of what I am looking at long term (regardless of the pending lawsuit), he tries to avoid talking to me. I am beginning to wonder what's going on and if something went wrong during surgery.

What are the laws in the state of Tennessee in regards to dr's releasing medical records and/or talking to their patients about their conditions.

What is your opinion? Thanks for your help


Asked on 3/28/03, 1:02 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jon Perry Perry & Perry

Re: Release of Medical Records and Diagnosis

You need to comunicate with your lawyer about this. They should be able to answer your questions. You have a right to get a copy of your medical records from the doctor upon a written request. It is more difficult to compel him to give you opinions about the future. If you upset the treating doctor, he will be less likely to assist you in the case. You should work through your attorney on this issue.

Best of luck,

Jon Perry

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Answered on 3/28/03, 10:02 am


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