What do we do?
We represent physicians in the professional aspects of their
practice and improve the health of the community.
What is the purpose of the SCMS?
To extend medical knowledge, advance medical science,
cultivate fraternal and social relationships among its members,
elevate and make known the opinions of the profession in scientific,
legislative, and public health, and provide political representation
for its members.
I have questions regarding the quality of care I received from my doctor. How can I have my questions/concerns addressed?
Present your questions/concerns to us in written form, including as much detail as possible and your contact information. Your letter may be mailed to us at the address on the home page or emailed to us at moreinfo@scmsoc.org. Upon receipt of your letter, it will be sent to our Ethics Committee for review and action.
I'm searching for my medical records; would they be in your possession?
There are no patient records of any kind stored in our office, although occasionally we might know their whereabouts. Please keep in mind that records are usually destroyed after seven years; however, obstetric records will be retained until the child reaches his/her 18th birthday.
Can my doctor really "drop" me?
Yes, doctors may, at their discretion, release you from their care. They must give you reasonable notice to secure another physician. You should receive a certified letter from your doctor which
should include information on the transfer of medical records as well as emergency and interim care. Please note that if you have been released by your doctor it is your responsibility to act immediately to find another doctor. There is a waiting list to get in to see any doctor.
I am no longer happy with my doctor. What would be the best way for me to end the relationship?
First, secure a new doctor, then write a letter to the doctor you're leaving breifly noting the reason you're leaving and formally requesting the release of your medical records.
Can my doctor really charge me for my records?
If the request is made by the patient or the patient's personal representative (as defined by Ohio Revised Code 3701.74), total costs for copies and all services related to those copies shall not exceed the sum of the following: With respect to data recorded on paper, the following amounts:
• Two dollars and eighty-four cents ($2.84) per page for the first ten pages;
• Fifty-nine cents (59¢) per page for pages eleven through fifty;
• Twenty-four cents (24¢) per page for pages fifty-one and higher;
• The actual cost of any related postage incurred by the health care provider or medical records company.
With respect to data recorded other than on paper such as copies of X-rays, EKG strips, etc.:
• One dollar and ninety-four cents ($1.94) per page
• Postage
The following entities are entitled to one free copy of a medical record: the Bureau of Workers' Compensation; the Industrial Commission; the Department of Job and Family Services; and the patient or patient's personal representative if the medical record is necessary to support a claim for Social Security Disability or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and the request is accompanied by documentation that a claim has been filed.
Privacy statement
We are the sole owners of the information collected on this
site. No outside party has access to the information you
voluntarily provide us. We will not sell or rent this information to anyone.
We will use your information to respond to you regarding
the reason you contacted us. We will not share your information
with any third party outside of our organization.
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