Medical Records Requests
The Health Information Management department maintains records of the care patients receive while they are at The George Washington University Hospital. As required by state and federal law, these records are kept in strict confidence and are only released with proper authorization. We allow multiple ways for patients to obtain medical records and radiology studies.
Patient-related information may also be released to a physician or medical facility for follow-up care of the patient when needed, free of charge. We encourage patients to request medical record information at least 10 days prior to any follow-up care. The physician's office can fax the request to 202-715-4361.
Patient Portal – Health Records Online
For the quickest access, retrieve your records directly through our patient portal, Health Records Online, which enables you to access your records on-demand at your convenience.
Online Request
Submit your medical record request through our online medical correspondence system.
Paper Requests
Step 1: Please download, complete, sign and return the authorization release form. All requests for release of medical records information must be accompanied by an authorization form and signed by the patient. The form must have an original signature.
Download the Authorization Form (English) →
Download the Authorization Form (Spanish) →
Download the Authorization Form (Arabic) →
Download the Authorization Form (Chinese Traditional) →
Download the Authorization Form (Chinese Simplified) →
**ONLY for Pathology, Cytology or Autopsy Requests** →
Step 2: Please mail the form to:
George Washington University Hospital
Health Information Management Dept.
Attention: Correspondence
900 23rd Street, NW
Suite G2036
Washington, DC 20037
Electronic Delivery of Records for Patients Only
To receive your medical record information electronically, please complete steps 1 and 2 above. Be sure to indicate on the authorization form that you want the medical record information sent to you electronically and provide an email address.
Requesting COVID-19 Test Results
Our Medical Records office is able to take requests for COVID-19 positive test results over the phone while individuals are quarantining for 14 days. If you are seeking a copy of your test results while quarantining, you can request them by calling 202-715-5324.
Fees
Federal law permits George Washington University Hospital to assess patients a reasonable, cost-based fee for copies of their records. (See 45 CFR § 164.524(c)(4))
Covered entities and Business Associates impose a cost-based fee, including labor, supplies, and postage when providing patients PHI. As an alternative to the cost-based fee, HHS has offered a “Safe Harbor” flat fee rate for patients in the amount of $6.50.
Once the records are ready, you will be notified via mail. Please review the invoice for payment information. Payment may be made by check, credit card or money order. Your requested records will then be mailed to you.
Please note records from another facility contained within the requested records may be released.
There are no fees associated with the patient portal, Health Records Online.
Please call 610-994-7500 Ext. 1 to check the status of your request, make a payment or ask any questions.
Medical Records Policy
Has it Been More Than 10 Years?
The George Washington University Hospital retains hospital based medical records in accordance with the District of Columbia's Municipal Regulations.
All records are maintained, archived and onsite for 10 years following the date of discharge, after which they are destroyed. This applies to both inpatient and outpatient cases that are hospital-based services.
If the patient was a minor at the time of last visit, records are maintained for a minimum of 10 years or until the person is 22 years of age.
Contact Medical Records
Medical Records
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
202-715-5324
Radiology Images
Phyllis Savoy
202-715-5197
Birth Certificates
Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
202-715-4363 or 202-715-4374
Death Certificates
Monday – Friday
Requests will receive a response within 24-48 business hours
202-715-4053, option 3
For Birth Certificates and Death Certificates please contact:
DC Vital Records
2201 Shannon PL SE
1st Floor
Washington, DC 20020
202-442-9303