Dear Mary: Is there any way that I can gather all of my family's health records so I have them in my possession? If so, what is the best way to store them once I have them? — Bev, Ohio

Dear Bev: You have the right to obtain copies of most medical records, including doctor's notes, medical test results, lab reports and billing information. The secret is in knowing how to ask for these records.

First, you must be the patient or the parent or guardian of the patient to make the request. Non-minor family members must request their own records. If you are a caregiver for someone elderly or disabled, you must have the proper written permission to gain access.

Most providers ask you to fill out a form to request your records. You should be able to get this form by fax, e-mail or mail or by stopping by the provider's office. Once you return this form, you will pay a nominal fee to cover the costs of making copies and postage to have the records mailed to you.

This process could take time, especially if the records are years old. Staff will have to go into the provider's record storage facility to search for them. Each state has its own laws about how much can be charged. Typically, it is a flat rate per page.

One way to avoid the cost may be to request your records as you receive services. Make it a habit to request copies of your chart as you leave the provider's office. Because the records will not have been stored at that point, it's possible you won't be charged anything for the copies.

As for storing your records, I suggest that you scan them to CDs. Keep one copy in your home and a duplicate with a trusted friend or relative in another state. That way, in case of a fire or other disaster, you'll have a good copy. I also would keep the hard copies filed chronologically in binders, with the names of the service providers visible. Keep the binders in a secure place in your home.

Dear Mary: My cookie sheets and muffin pans have become rusty. They are new, but they have been washed with soap and never have been allowed to dry properly. Is there a way to salvage these pieces? — Becky M., e-mail

Dear Becky: Pick up a can of Bar Keepers Friend liquid cleanser. You'll find this where the cleaning supplies are in your supermarket, as well as online at http://www.SoapsGoneBuy.com. This stuff is like magic. I don't think I could live without it. I use it on everything metal in my kitchen, including stainless steel and aluminum. It's better than bleach on my white sink and is nonabrasive. It will do wonders for your cookie sheets and pans. When you get them all cleaned up, make sure you dry them properly after every use.

Do you have a question for Mary? E-mail her at [email protected], or write to Everyday Cheapskate, P.O. Box 2135, Paramount, CA 90723. Mary Hunt is the founder of www.DebtProofLiving.com and author of 18 books, including "Can I Pay My Credit Card Bill With a Credit Card?" To find out more about Mary and read her past columns, please visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

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