Medicaid: View Your Health Records
Some Medicaid members can view their medical records on a mobile app safely and securely.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Interoperability and Patient Access final rule puts patients first by giving them access to their health information when they need it most, and in a way they can best use it.
How does it work?
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has software that lets approved mobile apps view data in our system. Once you choose and download an app, you give approval for the app to connect with us and access your information.
Why would I want to do this?
Your health records are spread out across all the doctors and other health care providers you visit. Approved mobile apps bring all that information together in one place for you. Having a more complete health history at your fingertips can help you get better care.
Are there privacy risks?
Whenever you allow access to your personal information, there are security risks. The key is choosing a mobile app with policies and terms of use that make you feel comfortable and confident your data will be kept safe.
- Look for easy-to-read privacy policies and terms of use that clearly explain how the app will use your data.
- Do not use the app if it doesn’t have a privacy policy or if you’re not comfortable with its terms.
DHS does not endorse any application.
How do I get started?
If you get your health care coverage from an HMO (health maintenance organization), contact them to find out how to view your health records. If you have fee-for-service coverage (you’re charged for each service you receive from a doctor or provider), follow these steps:
- Review the list of CARIN Alliance trusted apps. These apps follow the CARIN Alliance Code of Conduct (PDF). New apps are added as they become available.
- Review their terms of use and privacy statements.
- Select and download an app.
- Follow the app’s instructions to sign up and link to your health data.
Other questions and answers
Your records might show things like your:
- Allergies.
- Immunizations.
- Lab tests and results.
- Medications.
- Health concerns.
- Procedures.
- Treatment plans.
Yes. You can contact your doctor’s office, clinic, or any other place you’ve received care to ask for your health records.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights enforces HIPAA rules. That includes those related to:
- Data breaches.
- Patient safety.
- Privacy.
- Security.
Find more information about your rights under HIPAA and explore HIPAA FAQs (frequently asked questions). HIPAA does not cover most third-party apps. Those fall under the authority of the Federal Trade Commission.
The CARIN Alliance Code of Conduct (PDF) outlines the specific ways apps not covered by HIPAA should use, manage, and exchange personally identifiable health information. The CARIN Alliance has worked with partners and leaders in government to help consumers easily get, use, and share their digital health information. Their Code of Conduct is recommended as a best practice by the:
- Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
- TEFCA Recognized Coordinating Entity
You can submit a Wisconsin Medicaid HIPAA Privacy Complaint form, F-13152 (PDF). If you can’t resolve your issue at the state level, you can file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights or report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission.
You can call Member Services at 800-362-3002 or read more about the Interoperability and Patient Access final rule.