is to ask your insurance company and pharmacy[ies] for summary copies of your claims and prescriptions...these usually go back 2-3 years, other can go back further. Their use is for those times when you are referred to another different [not regular] place for testing and all that. That way you know exactly what meds you were on when, and which docs to see to get records from.
Specialized tests you may have to go to each doc to sign release forms to get the info. Some docs won't release another doc's tests results to the patient...strange quirk in the 'interpretations' of the privacy acts.... Usually it entails [this is how I do it] calling and asking for the release form...filling it out, hand delivering it to that doc [along with showing of ID] then being notified of any copy costs-paying them, and have the records sent to you...It is a hassle, but if you don't get copies and a doc retires..well, you may never get them.

I hope this all helps.... with a few needed 's . Sounds as if they're needed. - j