VA Form 10-5345A: Request Your VA Medical Records – Veterans and eligible individuals seeking access to their VA medical records often use VA Form 10-5345A. This form allows you to request copies of your own health information held by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Understanding this process ensures you can efficiently obtain important documents for personal use, claims, or continuity of care.
What Is VA Form 10-5345A?
VA Form 10-5345A, titled “Individuals’ Request for a Copy of Their Own Health Information,” is the official form veterans use to request copies of their VA-held medical records. It complies with the Privacy Act (38 CFR 1.577) and supports your rights under HIPAA and VA policies to access your personal health information.
The form is typically one page and fillable. It collects your identifying details, specifies the records requested, and indicates delivery preferences. The current revision date is July 2021.
Download the official form here:
Download VA Form 10-5345A (PDF)
Who Should Use VA Form 10-5345A?
This form is for veterans and individuals requesting their own health records from VA facilities. It is not for authorizing release to third parties (use VA Form 10-5345 for that).
- Veterans who received care at VA medical centers or facilities.
- Authorized representatives (with proper documentation like guardianship or power of attorney).
- Those needing records for personal review, disability claims, legal matters, or sharing with non-VA providers.
Note: Many veterans can access records more quickly through the My HealtheVet portal without this form.
How to Fill Out VA Form 10-5345A Step by Step?
- Address the form to the specific VA Health Care Facility (name and location) where you received treatment.
- Provide your personal information: Full name, date of birth, mailing address, and contact details.
- Describe the information requested: Check boxes for items like:
- Health Summary (prior 2 years)
- Inpatient Discharge Summary
- Progress Notes
- Lab Results
- Radiology Reports
- Medication Lists
- Other (specify dates and details)
- Specify delivery method: Paper, CD-ROM, in-person pickup, or mail to an address.
- Sign and date the form (ink signature required). If signed by a representative, note the authority.
- Include a copy of your photo ID if submitting by mail or fax.
Accuracy in dates and facility information speeds up processing.
Submission Methods for VA Form 10-5345A
You can submit the completed form in several ways to the Release of Information (ROI) office at your VA health facility:
- In Person: Bring the form and valid photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or Veterans Health Identification Card).
- By Mail or Fax: Send to the medical records office at the treating facility.
- Secure Messaging (preferred for speed): Use My HealtheVet to request records directly in many cases.
Locate your facility’s contact details using the VA facility finder. Processing times vary but facilities aim to respond promptly while protecting privacy.
Online Access vs. Using VA Form 10-5345A
Before using the paper form, check My HealtheVet (now part of VA.gov) for secure online access to many records, including lab results, notes, and summaries. Premium accounts offer expanded viewing and download options.
The form remains essential for:
- Complete historical records not available online.
- Specific date ranges or document types.
- Official paper or CD copies for legal/claims purposes.
Fees, Processing Time, and Privacy Protections
VA generally provides the first copy of records at no cost, though fees may apply for additional copies or extensive requests. Processing can take days to weeks depending on volume and complexity.
The VA strictly follows privacy laws. Your information is protected, and disclosures occur only as authorized. The form includes a Privacy Act statement explaining voluntary disclosure and use of your data.
Common Reasons to Request VA Medical Records
- Supporting VA disability claims or appeals.
- Sharing records with private doctors or specialists.
- Personal health tracking or second opinions.
- Legal proceedings, insurance, or employment requirements.
- Updating personal health history.
Tips for a Successful Request
- Use the most recent form version from the official VA site.
- Be specific about dates and record types to avoid delays.
- Keep a copy of your submitted form and correspondence.
- Follow up if you don’t receive acknowledgment within a reasonable time.
- Consider secure messaging first for faster access.
For the latest guidance, visit the official VA resources:
VA Form 10-5345A empowers veterans with control over their health information. Whether for claims, care coordination, or peace of mind, following these steps ensures a smooth process. Always refer to official VA.gov sources for the most current instructions.