Business ProfileforLifeline Medical Associates, LLC

I am writing to file a formal complaint against Lifeline Medical Associates, a healthcare facility located in **********, for their unacceptable behavior and what I believe to be a clear violation of my rights under the **************** Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).On 9/11/2023, I, *****************************, a six-month pregnant woman, spoke with a manager of Lifeline Medical Associates to request a copy of my medical records, which are vital for my ongoing medical care during this critical period of my pregnancy. To my shock and dismay, I was informed that they could not release my records due to an outstanding bill. I believe that my rights under HIPAA have been violated in the following ways:Denial of Access to My Medical Records: HIPAA grants individuals the right to access their medical records promptly. By refusing to provide me with my medical records based on an outstanding bill, Lifeline Medical Associates denied me this fundamental right.Inappropriate Mixing of Financial and Medical Matters: HIPAA requires healthcare providers to maintain the confidentiality and privacy of patients' medical information. Denying access to medical records due to financial matters represents an inappropriate and potentially illegal mingling of these two aspects.Endangerment of My Health and the Health of My Unborn Child: Denying me access to my medical records while I am pregnant puts my health and the health of my unborn child at risk. HIPAA's primary goal is to protect patients' health information, and Lifeline Medical Associates' actions have undermined this critical aspect of the law.I kindly request that the Better Business Bureau investigate this matter and take appropriate action against Lifeline Medical Associates for their violation of HIPAA laws and their disregard for patient care and safety. I also request that you ensure Lifeline Medical Associates reviews its policies and procedures to prevent such violations in the future.