Frequently Asked Questions
Read these frequently asked questions to learn more about requesting medical records.
How may I request medical records?
Complete the online medical record request form or download, print, complete and sign this form (PDF) and send it to us via fax or US mail.
Where are you located and how can I contact you?
Complete contact information is available on the Contacting Medical Records page.
What are your hours of operation?
Hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm Pacific Standard Time, Monday through Friday. The office is closed on weekends and national holidays.
Who can request medical records?
Only the patient, duly authorized representative or other healthcare provider currently treating the patient may request medical records. Another person or entity may only receive copies of a medical record with a proper consent form authorizing the release of information.
May my spouse request and receive copies of my medical records?
No. Another person may not receive copies of your medical record without a consent form authorizing us to release the information to him or her. If your spouse is a duly authorized representative then he or she may request and receive records
May I request and receive copies of my children’s medical records?
Parents, guardians or other person acting in loco parentis have the authority to request records for unemancipated minors. In rare cases, we may deny access to a minor’s records if the access would have a detrimental effect on the professional relationship with the minor patient or jeopardize the minor’s physical safety or psychological well-being.
How long does it take to get records?
We process all requests as quickly as possible. Due to the large volume of requests we receive, it may take up to five (5) business days to complete your request from the date we receive it.
What if I need the records faster?
If you have a unique situation and need the records sooner, please contact us and we will do our best to accommodate you.
How much does it cost to get records?
The cost is regulated by California Health and Safety Code 123100 and calculated as twenty-five cents ($0.25) per page, reasonable clerical costs of $24.00 per hour billed in quarter hour increments, actual shipping charges if the records are mailed and any applicable California State Sales Tax.
Why is there a fee to get medical records?
The fee is to defray the costs to copy or reproduce medical records. It takes time, equipment and people to create a copy or reproduction of documents.
Will you fax the records?
Unfortunately, we do not fax records to patients at this time due to security issues with fax machines and the need to maintain patient privacy.
Will you mail the records or will I have to pick them up?
We will either mail the information to the address specified on your request form, or you may pick up your copy from our office.
Can you explain the charges on my hospital bill?
Unfortunately we are not able to explain charges on your bill. Please contact or Billing Customer Service Department at 951-696-6000.
How do I request a birth certificate?
Temecula Valley Hospital does not keep birth certificates for those patients born at the facility. You may request a copy from the County of Riverside, Assessor-County Clerk-Recorder.
May I request records over the telephone?
Due to patient confidential and information security issues we do not accept telephone requests. We need a written and signed authorization to release protected health information.
What is Arctrieval?
Arctrieval is the medical records correspondence system used by Temecula Valley Hospital to manage and process requests for medical records. The Arctrieval system increases the accuracy and speed in which we are able to process requests for medical records. If you have a question about Arctrieval you may contact Arctrieval via email at info@arctrieval.com and they will be happy to assist you.