The Victorian Freedom of Information (FOI) Act gives you the right to request access to your medical records.
Apply for your medical records
If you need to access your medical record through Freedom of Information, please fill out the below form and return it with supporting documentation to:
Freedom of Information Office
Health Information Services
The Royal Victorian Eye & Ear Hospital
Locked Bag 8
East Melbourne VIC 8002
Fax: 9929 8228
Telephone: (03) 9929 8230
Email: FOI@eyeandear.org.au
For more information, please refer to the frequently asked questions below.
Accessing your medical records FAQs
The Freedom of Information Act 1982 (Vic) gives you the right to request access to your medical records held by the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital.
Applications must be received in writing using the Freedom of Information application form, available on the Eye and Ear website. A copy of valid photo ID and payment of the application fee must accompany the completed application form.
If the application is on behalf of someone else, please ensure written consent is submitted at the time of the application. If the request relates to a minor, written consent from both parents/legal guardians must be obtained.
Application fee: $32.70*as of July 1 2024
The application fee is a fixed cost that is nonrefundable. The only exception is for people suffering financial hardship who may ask the Hospital to waive the application fee. All other charges are payable.
Search and retrieval fee: $5.00
Photocopying/printing (black & white): 20 cents per page
Photocopying/printing (colour): $1.00 per page
Photographs: $5.00 per photo
*As of July 1 2024
In accordance with the Freedom of Information Act, the Eye and Ear has 30 days from receipt of your valid application to make a decision about your request. The Eye and Ear may be required to consult third parties to determine whether to release all or part of a record. This consultation may require an extension of time to make a decision and if so, you will be notified in writing. Documents will be released once all applicable charges have been paid.
You may be able to access another person’s records only if you have their written authority to do so. You may also be able to obtain another person’s records if you can provide evidence of the following circumstances:
You have been appointed as their legal guardian
You have been appointed Enduring Power of Attorney (Medical)
You are the senior available next of kin if the person is deceased
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