Freedom of Information

Release of Information

Free and quick access to selected medical documents is available to patients and guardians with correct patient identification and consent.

The below options outline how to access medical records before considering the formal Freedom Of Information process.  What you choose may depend on your reason for needing records or the amount you require.

1. My Health Record - you may be able to access relevant Discharge Summaries, Pathology Reports, Radiology Reports and Operation Reports from your Medicare My Health Record through your MyGov account.

2. Your GP/other medical practitioner - Bendigo Health can transfer documents directly to your GP & other medical practitioners for the purposes of your ongoing care and referrals. This can be done quickly and no payment is required. If you wish to make this request, yourself or the other medical clinic you are attending can contact Health Information Services (HIS) [email protected]  to arrange sharing of health information.

3. Health Information Services (HIS) - HIS can supply you directly with standard documents such as Discharge Summaries, Pathology Reports, Radiology Reports and Operation Reports. This can also be done quickly and no payment is required. Please contact [email protected].

If the above options do not suit your needs please read information below regarding the FOI process and how to make an application.

What we do

The FOI team can assist you in making your application and explain the fees involved.

Requests can be made for copies of medical records, medical imaging, extracts from birth registers, policies and staff records.

Victorian legislation requires all health records to undergo an appropriate review prior to release.

The FOI department is also responsible for releasing/providing health information to relevant statutory bodies, for example the Coroners Court.

Who we care for

All patients - past and present - who are requesting copies of medical record held by Bendigo Health, all employees - past and present - seeking copies of their staff records, and corporate requests.

Please note:  FOI processes and associated charges do not apply if you require information to be transferred from Bendigo Health to your medical practitioner for ongoing care purposes. 

Your medical practitioner may request information in writing, accompanied by your signed consent.

How to access this service

Applications must be made in writing using the below application form and forwarded onto the FOI Officer.

An online application form can also be submitted here.

Applications must be accompanied by the prescribed fee unless we waive it. Photo identification and signed authority must accompany the application in order for it to be considered a valid request.

Commonly asked questions

How much will it cost?

A non-refundable application fee of $32.70 must accompany the application. The production cost will vary according to each request and charges are updated annually. Current fees and charges are available on the Office of the Victorian Information Commissioner website.

How long will I have to wait?

Organisations have 30 days to inform you of their decision about your request. There may be circumstances where we need to consult with you to extend the 30-day period.

Can I obtain someone else’s records under FOI?

You may obtain another person’s records if you have their signed authority to do so, have been appointed Power of Attorney (Medical), have been appointed a legal guardian of that person, or are the Senior Next of Kin of a deceased person.

What documents may be exempt?

The FOI Act allows for access to information to be denied in certain circumstances.

Examples of documents that may be exempt are documents affecting personal privacy and documents containing material obtained in confidence.

Does the applicant need to be over 18 years of age?

There is no set age limit for minors to be able to consent. Each request is assessed on a case by case basis.