You trust your doctor to tell the truth and keep accurate notes about your care. So when something in your medical records doesn’t seem right – whether it’s missing, changed, or just completely different from what you remember – it can feel like a punch to the gut.
At The Law Offices of Andres, Berger & Tran, we’ve seen how upsetting and confusing this situation can be. You’re not just dealing with a medical issue anymore – you’re left wondering what’s real, what was recorded, and whether someone’s trying to cover something up. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and you may have legal options.
Let’s break down why this happens, what it could mean, and what you can do next.
Why Would a Doctor Alter a Medical Chart?
Medical records are legal documents that, when properly kept, paint a clear picture of your diagnosis, treatment, and care plan. But in some cases, a provider may alter a chart to:
- Hide an error in diagnosis or treatment
- Prevent accountability for misdiagnosis
- Justify a treatment that didn’t go as planned
- Downplay a patient’s complaints
- Hide missed symptoms or test results
Intentional changes – especially those made after a complication – could indicate doctor negligence or even fraud, forming the basis of a medical malpractice case.
How Can You Tell If a Record Was Changed?
It’s not always obvious. Some patients only discover changes after requesting copies of their records or during a second opinion. Common red flags include:
- Missing or rewritten notes
- New entries added after a complication occurred
- Contradictions between what you were told and what’s written
- Multiple versions of the same record with differing information
If something feels off, trust your instincts. Ask for a full, dated copy of your chart. In many cases, a deeper review by a legal or medical expert may reveal backdated entries or altered information.
Is This Considered Malpractice?
Falsifying or altering a medical chart can be considered medical negligence. If the false information led to harm, such as:
- A delay in diagnosis
- Incorrect treatment
- Lack of follow-up care
- Medication errors
…this could form the basis of a medical malpractice claim. At The Law Offices of Andres, Berger & Tran, we evaluate each case with care and expertise. By working with top medical experts, we assess whether your records were altered and whether those changes contributed to your injury or worsened condition.
Is This a Criminal Offense or Just Civil?
In most cases, falsifying or altering medical records leads to civil legal consequences, not criminal charges. This means a patient can pursue financial compensation for the harm caused, but it typically won’t result in criminal penalties for the doctor.
That said, in more serious cases – especially those involving fraud – state licensing boards or law enforcement may open separate investigations. While criminal charges are rare, they are possible, depending on the severity of the misconduct.
Even without criminal action, a civil malpractice claim can still hold a healthcare provider accountable and help you move forward.
How Do Lawyers Prove Altered Records?
If you're worried that it’s your word against the doctor’s, you’re not alone. Modern technology, however, makes it easier to uncover the truth.
At The Law Offices of Andres, Berger & Tran, we partner with medical experts and forensic analysts to review your records. Many electronic health record (EHR) systems log every change, including time stamps and user IDs. These audit trails can show exactly when entries were created or modified – and by whom. Even handwritten notes can be evaluated for inconsistencies or signs of tampering.
With the right legal and medical insight, patterns can sometimes emerge that provide valuable insight into your case.
What Should You Do Next?
If you're unsure where to begin, here are the first steps:
- Request your complete, dated medical records.
- Document your timeline and experiences, noting key dates, any interactions with healthcare providers, and any concerns you had about your care.
- Avoid confronting your doctor directly.
- Schedule a free legal consultation.
- Act promptly – New Jersey has strict deadlines for filing medical malpractice claims.
These steps protect your rights and give your attorney the best chance of building a strong case. It’s okay if you don’t have everything figured out yet – what matters is that you reach out early. And when you do, know this: your privacy is always respected. Everything you share with our team stays confidential, and there’s no obligation to move forward.
Ready to Talk? Andres, Berger & Tran Is Here to Help
If you suspect your medical records were altered or something was hidden, you don’t have to figure it out alone. The legal team at The Law Offices of Andres, Berger & Tran is here to help. With decades of experience handling complex medical malpractice cases, we proudly serve clients throughout New Jersey, including Camden, Cherry Hill, Haddonfield, Voorhees, Mount Laurel, and beyond.
Your health and your truth matter, and we’re here to protect both. Reach out to us today for a free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward holding healthcare providers accountable.
Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship with The Law Offices of Andres, Berger & Tran. Legal outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case, and laws may vary by jurisdiction. If you believe you have a medical malpractice claim, you should consult with a qualified attorney to discuss your individual circumstances.