What is the law?Can I get my dogs ultra sound pics and x rays?

Question

I am switching vets due to a very arrogant Dr. and part of his staff. I asked for my records and all he gave me were the paper records. I have spent alomost $3,000.00 on a very sick dog, not to mention two other dogs I own, plus my daughters two dogs. I asked for the picture x rays and ultra sound pics and was told by law, they cannot give them to me, unless the next vet asks for them. I payed alot of money for them and want them. Do I have recourse?

Answer 1

It would make sense that the same laws that apply to human medical records would apply to animal medical records and you should have the right to obtain these records.  You may be required to sign a release or two and you may be charged a fee, but I am unaware of any law that requires the vet to withhold the pet's records - except perhaps for records you are seeking for a pet that is not yours.  In that case, the pet's owner would have to sign the releases and pay the fees.  

Perhaps the vet's arrogance is a front for the fact that the records have been misplaced or destroyed.  

You should be able to ask an attorney and get an opinion on an issue like this for very little money, OR you could contact your local bar association and ask if they have a program whereby you can get an opinion on this matter from an attorney for no charge (pro bono).

I agree that the vet is being unreasonable on this issue.  

Answer 2

X-rays and ultrasound images are tools, not products.

When you purchase medical services, you're not purchasing the materials that are produced. You're paying for the attention of medical personel and their evaluation of materials produced during examinations.

Sorry, but you have no legal right to the x-rays and ultrasounds.

Answer 3

You can get them. call a lawyer and ask him/her how?