How to get your health data in Norway
22 kwi 2022
As a patient in Norway, you have the legal right to access your full medical records from any healthcare provider. This is guaranteed by both Norwegian health laws and the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
You can ask Livv Health to retrieve your records for you, or follow the following step-by-step to do it yourself:
Step 1: Access Public Health Data on Helsenorge.no
In Norway, you can access some of your public health data through the national health portal, helsenorge.no. This includes information from public hospitals and other public healthcare providers. While this doesn't give you your complete medical records, it's a good starting point. Log in with your electronic ID to view available health information.
Step 2: Identify Your Healthcare Providers
Make a list of all the healthcare facilities and providers that may have your medical information. This could include your fastlege (GP), hospitals, clinics, specialists, diagnostic centers, and more.
Step 3: Contact Each Provider
Reach out to each healthcare provider on your list. You can make your record request verbally (in person or by phone) or in writing (via mail or email). Clearly state that you want to access your full medical records under your rights in the Patient Record Act and GDPR. Use the template request form provided below.
Step 4: Verify Your Identity
The provider will likely ask you to verify your identity to ensure they are releasing records to the right person. Be prepared to provide a form of identification.
Step 5: Specify Record Format
Let the provider know in what format you want your records, such as physical copies, digital files, or just the ability to view them at their facility. Note that while providers can't charge for access, they may charge reasonable fees for copying and sending records.
Step 6: Await Response
Providers are obligated to respond to your access request without undue delay and provide a reason if they are unable to fully comply. Contact them again if you don't hear back within a few weeks.
Step 8: Review and Store your Records safely
Upon receiving your records, carefully review them for errors or missing information. Securely store the records as part of your personal medical history file. You can download the Livv Health app to protect and organize your health information effortlessly.
Remember, while some public health data is available through helsenorge.no, this doesn't replace your right to obtain your complete medical records. Use the template below to assert that right with each of your healthcare providers.
Request Form for Medical Records in Norway
[ Your Full Name ]
[ Your Address ]
[ Your Phone Number ]
[ Your Email ]
[Date]
[ Healthcare Provider Name ]
[ Healthcare Provider Address ]
Dear [ Healthcare Provider ],
I am writing to request access to my complete medical records held by your institution. This request is being made under my rights in the Norwegian Patient Record Act (Pasientjournalloven) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Article 15.
Please provide me with:
A full copy of all medical records you hold about me, including but not limited to clinical notes, test results, imaging studies, referrals, and correspondence.
An explanation of any codes or abbreviations used in the records.
I would prefer to receive the records in [ specify format - electronic, hard copy, etc. ]. If there are any fees associated with copying or providing the records, please inform me before proceeding.
If you need any additional information from me, please contact me at [your phone number] or [your email].
Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to receiving my complete medical records within the timeframe required by law.
Sincerely,
[ Your Signature ]
[ Your Name ]