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PhrasesAt the DoctorPosso avere una copia della cartella clinica?
B2formal

Posso avere una copia della cartella clinica?

Can I have a copy of my medical records?

Pronunciation

kar-TEL-la CLI-ni-ka — 'cl' as in 'clock'. Two separate words. Stress pattern: second syllable each.

When to use it

Request this when changing doctors, seeking a second opinion, travelling abroad for treatment, or for insurance purposes.

What it means

'Posso avere' (Can I have / May I have) is a polite request form using 'potere' (can). 'Cartella clinica' is the official medical record. In Italian public healthcare, you have a legal right to your 'cartella clinica' under GDPR and Italian privacy law. There may be an administrative fee.

Variations

Vorrei richiedere la mia documentazione medica.

I would like to request my medical documentation.

More formal — used for written requests or at hospital administration

Ho diritto alla copia della mia cartella clinica.

I have the right to a copy of my medical records.

Assert your legal right if denied — GDPR applies in Italy

Mi serve un riassunto della mia storia clinica.

I need a summary of my medical history.

'Lettera di dimissioni' or 'relazione clinica' — often sufficient for GPs or specialists

Mini Dialogue

— Buongiorno, vorrei richiedere una copia della mia cartella clinica. — Per quale motivo? — Mi trasferisco e ho bisogno dei documenti per il nuovo medico. — Capisco. Compili questo modulo. La copia è pronta in cinque giorni lavorativi. — C'è un costo? — Cinque euro per la stampa.

— Good morning, I would like to request a copy of my medical records. — For what reason? — I am moving and I need the documents for my new doctor. — I understand. Fill out this form. The copy will be ready in five working days. — Is there a cost? — Five euros for printing.

Cultural Note

Under Italian law (D.Lgs. 196/2003, updated with GDPR), every patient has the right to access their medical records ('cartella clinica'). Hospitals must provide copies within 30 days. You can also request your 'fascicolo sanitario elettronico' (digital health file) through the regional health portal. This document contains all your Italian health history.