FAQs

Personal information and privacy

I had a surgical operation and I would like to see my file. Do they have to comply with my request? If so, can they require me to pay charges?

You generally have the right to access your medical file free of charge. You also have the right to obtain a copy of your file; in such a case, you might be asked to pay transcription, photocopying or mailing costs. These costs must be reasonable, that is to say, similar to what it would really cost someone to prepare the copy. You must also be informed of the cost before the copy of your file is made and sent to you. If you have the impression that the sum required is too high, mention it to your doctor. If need be, lodge a complaint with the Commission d’accès à l’information.

Note: Doctors may sometimes refuse patients access to their medical files. This is the case when they believe that a patient’ health is likely to suffer seriously as a result. It may also occur when the patient is under 14 years of age (the request must be made as part of a legal procedure and through an attorney).