How to get your loved one’s medical records from CDCR / CCHCS
If your loved one is in CDCR custody, you typically can't access their medical information unless they sign the right authorization. Here's the simplest way to request records through CDCR and California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS).
For CDCR/CCHCS to release medical information to anyone outside the prison (including family members), the patient must sign an Authorization for Release of Protected Health Information. Without that signed form, they won't release records to you. Your loved one can request the authorization form from the medical office at their institution and complete it there.
- Health Records receives and reviews the authorization - The institution’s Health Records Department reviews the signed authorization once it comes in.
- Mental Health review happens (if applicable) - If mental health records are part of what’s being requested, the authorization is forwarded to a Mental Health provider for approval.
- ROI prints the requested documents - After review and any needed approval, the Health Records Department Release of Information (ROI) staff prints the requested health care documents.
Where to Send
- ✓ Health and Imaging Records Center, P.O. Box 588500, Elk Grove, CA 95758
- ✓ (916) 229-0608
- ✓ releaseofinformation@cdcr.ca.gov
If the person has already been released and you need their health records, contact the California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS) Health and Imaging Records Center at (916) 379-4545.
Practical Tips
- ✓ Make sure the request includes a signed Authorization for Release of Protected Health Information, since the institution must review it before any documents can be printed.
- ✓ Include clear identifying details for your loved one so staff can match the request to the right chart (for example: full name and any CDCR identifying information you have).
- ✓ Be specific about what you’re asking for, so ROI staff knows which health care documents to print.
- ✓ Choose one delivery method and send your request to the matching contact point: mail to the Health and Imaging Records Center (P.O. Box 588500, Elk Grove, CA 95758), fax to (916) 229-0608, or email to releaseofinformation@cdcr.ca.gov.
- ✓ Keep copies of anything you send (the authorization and your request), and note the date you mailed, faxed, or emailed it.
- ✓ Expect the authorization to go through internal review, and possibly Mental Health approval if applicable, before the requested documents are printed.
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