Medical Records and Documentation: Getting Copies to Take Home and Share

Before leaving Colombia, request complete medical documentation. Essential records: operative report (describes procedure, surgeon, anesthesia, complications), pathology reports (if any tissue removed), imaging (X-rays, CT, ultrasound on CD/USB), lab results, anesthesia records, discharge summary, and prescriptions. Request in writing (email or form) specifying formats: digital copies preferred (PDF on USB or email); paper copies acceptable if digital unavailable. Cost: Usually free; some clinics charge $20–$50. Timeline: 1–3 business days. Share records with your home physician before follow-up appointments. Digital sharing: Email PDF copies or use secure patient portal (some clinics offer). Retain originals for your records indefinitely. If revisions needed later, detailed operative report is essential for your revision surgeon to understand original procedure. US physicians can access Colombian records; most will review if you provide them proactively.