Medical records Resource #7
Accessing your medical records & using RTI
How to request your medical records, when to use a formal Right to Information (RTI) application, what to include, and what to do if it stalls.
At a glance
- Ask the hospital's Health Information or Medical Records Unit first.
- If there are long delays or missing information, you can lodge a formal RTI application.
- Follow up politely by email and phone — and keep a record of every contact.
What is RTI?
Right to Information (RTI) is a formal legal process that lets people request information held by Queensland Government agencies, including Queensland Health.
It can be the right pathway if you’ve experienced significant delays getting records, believe information may be missing, or simply want to make a formal request.
Step by step
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Request your records first
Many hospitals release medical records directly through their Health Information or Medical Records Unit. If you've waited an unreasonable time, or are having difficulty getting them, move to a formal RTI application.
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Lodge an RTI application
Use the Queensland Health RTI application form. See the checklist below for what to include.
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Send it to the right team
Applications go to the Queensland Health Right to Information team for the Hospital and Health Service that holds the records. They can usually be submitted electronically or by post.
What to include in your application
Your ticks stay on this screen only — nothing is sent or saved.
How long does it take?
Straightforward requests may be processed within several weeks, but complex applications can take considerably longer. If your application is delayed, follow up politely by both email and phone, and keep a record of every contact.
If your application stalls
In our experience, persistent, polite follow-up is worthwhile. If there are significant unexplained delays, some people also choose to ask their local Queensland Member of Parliament to help progress the matter.
How Queensland Hospital Watch can help
While we can’t provide medical or legal advice, we’re happy to help explain the RTI process, complaint pathways and advocacy options, and point you towards the right resources.
Want a hand with this?
We can help you understand the pathways available, organise your information and point you to the right organisations. We can't give medical or legal advice, but you don't have to work it out alone.
General information only. This guide is not medical or legal advice — seek professional advice for your circumstances. In an emergency, call 000.
