Can You Access Your Own Medical Records in Canada?
Can You Access Your Own Medical Records in Canada?
Your Health Data, Your Right
In Canada, patients have the legal right to access their own medical records. Whether you want to review lab results, keep track of a diagnosis, or get a copy of your health history, the process is more accessible than ever in 2025.
This guide breaks down how to access your medical records, what your privacy rights are, and how to request records online or in person.
According to a study from Canadian Institute for Health Information, they found that more than 4 in 5 Canadians felt better able to manage their health after they had seen their electronic medical records.
What Are Medical Records?
Medical records are a comprehensive collection of your personal health information (PHI). They can include:
Lab and test results (blood work, imaging)
Doctor’s notes and consultation summaries
Medication and prescription history
Hospital admissions and discharge summaries
Immunization records
Diagnostic reports and treatment plans
Under Canadian privacy legislation, this information belongs to you, the patient. However, the custodian of the record (hospital, clinic, or physician) holds and manages the physical or electronic copy.
Your Legal Right to Access Your Records
Access to personal health information is governed by federal and provincial privacy laws. For example:
In Ontario, it’s regulated under the Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA).
In Alberta, it’s under the Health Information Act (HIA).
Federally, the Privacy Act applies to federal institutions.
In most provinces and territories, you have the right to:
View your health record
Request a copy of your records
Know who has accessed your information
Request corrections if information is inaccurate
How to Access Your Medical Records in Canada
1. Through Your Family Doctor or Clinic
Most family practices and clinics keep digital or paper health records. You can:
Contact the clinic directly and request a copy of your record.
Complete a medical record request form.
Receive copies electronically (email, secure portal) or on paper.
🕒 Typical processing time: 1–4 weeks.
2. Through Hospital Records Departments
If you were treated at a hospital, your records are managed by the Health Records or Health Information Management department. You may need:
A written request form
Proof of identity (health card, ID)
Payment of administrative fees (if applicable)
💡 Tip: Most hospitals now offer online request portals, especially in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
3. Through Provincial Digital Portals
Many provinces have launched secure patient portals that give you direct, 24/7 access to your lab results, imaging reports, and visit history.
Examples include:
These platforms are free to use and reduce the need for paper requests.
4. Through Third-Party Authorization (Power of Attorney)
If someone is legally designated to act on your behalf (caregiver, family member), they can access your records with proper consent and legal documentation.
Is There a Cost to Access Your Medical Records?
While access is your right, some providers may charge administrative fees to cover printing, mailing, or processing time.
Most clinics: $30–$50 per request.
Hospitals: may charge additional fees for large records.
Digital portals: usually free.
Fees vary by province and provider.
How Long Does It Take to Get Your Records?
Primary care clinics: typically within 1–2 weeks.
Hospitals: may take 2–4 weeks.
Online portals: immediate or within 24–48 hours of posting results.
If your request is urgent, indicate this on your form. Some facilities offer expedited service.
Privacy, Security & Your Rights
In Canada, patient privacy is protected under strong legislation. Your health information cannot be shared without your consent except in specific legal or emergency circumstances.
You also have the right to:
See an access log (who viewed your record and when)
Request corrections to inaccurate information
Restrict access in certain cases
For more on your privacy rights, visit the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada.
Medical Records Access: Key Statistics
Canadians who accessed their records electronically, 1 in 3 (34%) said that the information allowed them to avoid a trip to the emergency department
Sex: 43% of females versus 36% of males have looked at their online medical records.
Only 25% of general practitioners reported sharing electronic information beyond their practice, compared with 33% of specialists.
(Source: Canadian Institute for Health Information, 2024)
Your Health Information Belongs to You
In Canada, patients have full legal rights to access their own medical records. Whether through a family doctor, hospital, or online health portal, the process is straightforward once you know the steps.
Taking control of your health data can help you:
Stay informed
Catch errors early
Coordinate care more effectively
👉 Next step: Make your life even easier and sign up for a free Syncara account to securely store, organize, and access all your health records in one place.
Frequently Asked Questions about Medical Records in Canada
Can patients see their full medical record in Canada?
Yes. Under Canadian privacy law, patients have the right to access their entire health record, including test results, physician notes, and treatment history.
How long do hospitals keep medical records in Canada?
Typically 10 years after the last entry or, for minors, 10 years after reaching age of majority. Retention rules may vary by province.
How can I access my lab results online in Ontario?
Most patients can log in through MyChart Ontario or other portals to view results securely.
Can a doctor refuse to give me my medical records?
Generally no, except in rare cases where releasing the information could cause harm. Denials must be explained in writing, and patients can appeal.
Do I have to pay to get a copy of my medical records?
Access is your legal right, but providers may charge an administrative fee for copies.
