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Request complete certified medical records from providers connected to the events, preferably accompanied by a certification letter. Include hospitalization, emergency care, primary care, specialists, and relevant treatment before, during, and after the event.
Gather medical and nursing notes, orders, medications, laboratory results, images, discharge records, and follow-up. In death cases, include available autopsy, pathology, forensic, and death-certificate records.
A discharge summary or a few photographed pages can be useful initially, but do not replace complete certified medical records, preferably accompanied by a certification letter. Identify partial copies and pending documents. Keep proof of requests and delivery. Begin obtaining records before the consultation, but do not delay advice about deadlines while waiting for them.
Ask for the certification to identify the records custodian and confirm that the copy is true, accurate, and complete as to the available file. Keep the letter with the records. The medical-records guide linked on this page explains collection steps, rights concerning copying fees and delivery, and how to seek help from the Office of the Patient Advocate.
Ask the certification letter to include its date, available signature and seal, patient name, record identifier, treatment dates, page count, and confirmation that the copy is true, accurate, and complete. This is the office’s collection guidance; retain the custodian’s response.
Include relevant pharmacies, rehabilitation, and specialists alongside the hospital and primary-care physician. An incomplete file may halt expert review; extensive records may increase cost.
The answer for your situation depends on the facts and records. An inquiry does not suspend legal deadlines or guarantee that the office will accept the case.