How to Request your Medical Records
Sometimes the clearest way to prepare for an appointment is to see what’s already written about your care. Your medical records include test results, hospital notes, and referral letters that can give you a more complete picture. Having these in your hands means you don’t have to rely on memory alone, and you can feel more confident that nothing important is overlooked.
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In Ireland, records are often held in different places, especially if you see multiple consultants across hospitals that don’t share an EHR (Electronic Health Recoord). Knowing how to request your records helps you bring those pieces together, so you feel informed and empowered in your healthcare journey.
Key Information on Requesting your Medical Records
Your Rights
In Ireland, you have a legal right to access your medical records. This is set out under GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) and, for public services, also under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.
These rights mean:
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You can ask for a copy of your personal health information.
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You don’t need to explain why you want it.
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You should usually receive it within one month of making your request.
Who to Contact
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HSE hospitals/services: Each hospital has an FOI/Data Protection office. Contact details are listed on the HSE website.
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Private hospitals or clinics: Send your request to their Data Protection Officer. Most private providers list this contact on their websites.
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GPs and specialists: Write directly to the practice manager or Data Protection contact.
Timelines and Fees
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Timeframe: You should receive your records within one month. In more complex cases, this can be extended by up to two months, but you must be informed.
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Cost: Under GDPR, the first copy is free. Providers may charge a reasonable fee for additional copies or if the request is excessive.
What to Include on your Request for Medical Records
When making your request, it helps to include:
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Your full name, date of birth, address, and contact details.
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A clear statement, e.g. “I am requesting a copy of all medical records you hold about me under Article 15 GDPR.”
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The timeframe or episode of care (if you only need certain records).
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Proof of ID (passport or driving licence copy).
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Your preference for format (electronic PDF or paper).
Tips if You See Multiple Consultants
Request
Request records from each hospital or clinic where you’ve received care: lab reports, imaging, and letters are often stored separately.
Log
Keep a simple log of where and when you made requests, including reference numbers.
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Organise
Once your records arrive, organise them by date. This creates your own medical history timeline, which makes follow-up care smoother.
Direct Links to Requesting your Medical Records
Click the links below to go directly to the pages that explain how to request your medical records from major hospitals in Ireland, including HSE public hospitals, the Mater Private, the Beacon, and Blackrock Clinic. If the hospital you need isn’t listed, let us know, we’ll add the details so this guide stays up to date.
