MHS Genesis: Your Military Medical Records Guide
How to access, navigate, and download your military medical records from the MHS Genesis patient portal
Last Updated: January 11, 2026 • 10 min read
Quick Facts
- ✅ MHS Genesis is the DoD's electronic health record system for all military treatment facilities
- ✅ Access at mhsgenesis.health.mil using CAC or DS Logon
- ✅ Only includes MTF records since your base transitioned (2017-2024 depending on location)
- ✅ Does NOT include civilian provider records or pre-Genesis MTF records
- ✅ Available 24/7 via web portal or MHS Genesis mobile app
What is MHS Genesis?
MHS Genesis (Military Health System Genesis) is the Department of Defense's integrated electronic health record (EHR) system. It replaced the legacy AHLTA system and rolled out to all military treatment facilities (MTFs) worldwide between 2017 and 2024.
MHS Genesis stores medical records for active duty service members, family members, and retirees who receive care at military hospitals and clinics. The patient portal allows you to:
- View visit summaries, lab results, and imaging reports
- Download your complete medical record or specific documents
- Request prescription refills and view medication history
- Schedule appointments at MTFs
- Message your care team with non-urgent questions
- Update personal information and emergency contacts
What Records ARE in MHS Genesis?
Included Records
- ✅ All MTF visits since your base transitioned to Genesis
- ✅ Lab results and imaging from military facilities
- ✅ Prescriptions filled at MTF pharmacies
- ✅ Immunizations administered at MTFs
- ✅ Diagnoses and problem lists documented in Genesis
- ✅ Referrals to specialists (military or civilian through TRICARE)
- ✅ Allergies and adverse reactions documented by MTF providers
- ✅ Deployment health assessments (for active duty)
NOT Included Records
- ❌ Pre-Genesis MTF records (before your base's transition date)
- ❌ Civilian provider records (TRICARE Select, off-base specialists)
- ❌ Urgent care or ER visits at non-military facilities
- ❌ Pharmacy records from civilian pharmacies (even TRICARE-covered)
- ❌ School or sports physicals done by civilian providers
- ❌ Dental records (separate system - ask your dental clinic)
- ❌ Behavioral health records from civilian therapists/psychiatrists
For civilian records: You must request these directly from each provider using DD Form 2870. See our DD Form 2870 Guide.
When Did Your Base Transition to Genesis?
MHS Genesis rolled out in waves between 2017-2024. Records only exist in Genesis from your base's transition date forward. Here's the rollout timeline:
Wave 1 (2017): Initial Sites
Fairchild AFB, Naval Hospital Oak Harbor, Madigan Army Medical Center
Wave 2 (2019): California & Pacific Northwest
Travis AFB, Naval Base San Diego, Joint Base Lewis-McChord
Wave 3 (2020-2021): Texas & Southwest
Fort Hood, Fort Bliss, Lackland AFB, Luke AFB
Wave 4 (2022): Southeast & Mid-Atlantic
Fort Bragg, Camp Lejeune, Naval Station Norfolk, Eglin AFB
Wave 5 (2023-2024): Final Sites
Overseas bases (Germany, Japan, Korea), remaining CONUS installations
Don't know your base's date? Call your MTF's medical records office or patient advocate. They can tell you exactly when Genesis went live at your facility.
Pre-Genesis Records
If you need records from before your base's Genesis transition, contact the medical records office at your MTF. Pre-Genesis records may be stored in:
- Legacy AHLTA system (some bases still have access)
- Paper records archived at the facility
- National Archives (for very old records from closed facilities)
How to Access MHS Genesis Patient Portal
Web Portal Access
Go to the MHS Genesis Portal
Visit: mhsgenesis.health.mil
Click "Patient Portal" in the top navigation bar.
Choose Your Login Method
You have two options:
Option A: CAC (Common Access Card)
- For active duty and DoD civilians with CAC
- Requires CAC reader connected to computer
- Most secure and reliable method
Option B: DS Logon (Defense Self-Service Logon)
- For dependents, retirees, and anyone without CAC
- Username and password login
- Requires Level 2 (Premium) DS Logon account
- Create account at myaccess.dmdc.osd.mil
Log In
CAC users: Insert card, select certificate when prompted, enter PIN
DS Logon users: Enter username and password, complete 2-factor authentication (text or email code)
Accept Terms & Conditions
First-time users must read and accept the terms of use and privacy policy.
MHS Genesis Mobile App
The mobile app provides the same functionality as the web portal. Available for iOS and Android.
Download & Setup:
- Search "MHS Genesis" in App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)
- Download and install the official DoD app
- Open app and select "Patient Portal"
- Log in with DS Logon credentials (CAC not supported on mobile)
- Enable biometric login (Face ID/Touch ID/fingerprint) for faster access
Note: You must have a DS Logon Level 2 account to use the mobile app, even if you're active duty with a CAC. Create one at myaccess.dmdc.osd.mil.
Navigating the Patient Portal
Once logged in, here's what you'll see and how to find what you need:
Medical Records
View and download your complete medical history stored in Genesis.
What you can access: Visit summaries, lab results, imaging reports, problem list, medications, allergies, immunizations, care team info
Appointments
View upcoming appointments, request new appointments at your MTF, or cancel existing ones.
Note: This only works for MTF appointments. TRICARE civilian appointments are not shown.
Medications
View current prescriptions, medication history, request refills for MTF pharmacy.
Note: Only shows medications prescribed and filled at MTFs. TRICARE civilian prescriptions not included.
Messages
Secure messaging with your MTF care team. Use for non-urgent questions, medication refill requests, or follow-up on test results. Response within 1-3 business days.
Test Results
View lab work, imaging results (X-rays, CT, MRI), pathology reports. Results typically posted within 24-72 hours of completion.
How to Download Your Medical Records
This is the most important feature for PCS moves, EFMP enrollment, or school requirements. Here's how to export your records:
Navigate to Medical Records
From the main dashboard, click "Medical Records" or "Health Records"in the left sidebar.
Choose Download Option
You have multiple options:
Click "Download All Records" - generates a comprehensive PDF or CCD (Continuity of Care Document) with your entire Genesis medical history
Browse by date or record type, check boxes next to items you want, click "Download Selected"
Click on any visit note, lab result, or report to view, then click the download/print icon
Select Date Range
If downloading everything, you may be prompted to select a date range. For PCS/EFMP, select"All records since Genesis implementation" or specify the timeframe you need (e.g., last 24 months).
Choose File Format
PDF: Best for human reading, printing, or submitting to schools/EFMP
CCD/XML: Machine-readable format for importing into civilian EHR systems
For most purposes (PCS, EFMP, school), choose PDF.
Wait for Processing
Large record downloads can take 2-10 minutes to generate. You'll see a progress bar. Once complete, the file will auto-download or you'll get a link to download it.
Save Securely
Save the file to a secure location (encrypted drive, password-protected folder). These are sensitive medical documents with your SSN and protected health information.
Pro Tip: Download Regularly
Don't wait until you get PCS orders. Download your Genesis records every 6-12 months and store them securely. This ensures you always have a backup and aren't scrambling during out-processing.
Mobile App vs Web Portal: Which is Better?
| Feature | Web Portal | Mobile App |
|---|---|---|
| Access Method | CAC or DS Logon | DS Logon only |
| View Records | ✅ Full access | ✅ Full access |
| Download Records | ✅ Bulk download (PDF/CCD) | ⚠️ Individual docs only |
| Schedule Appointments | ✅ Full scheduling | ✅ Full scheduling |
| Secure Messaging | ✅ Send/receive | ✅ Send/receive + push notifications |
| Prescription Refills | ✅ Request refills | ✅ Request refills |
| Biometric Login | ❌ No | ✅ Face ID / fingerprint |
| Best For | Bulk downloads, detailed review | Quick checks, on-the-go access |
Recommendation: Use the web portal for downloading complete records before a PCS. Use the mobile app for day-to-day tasks like checking test results or messaging your provider.
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
"I can't log in with my DS Logon"
Possible causes:
- You have a Level 1 DS Logon (basic). MHS Genesis requires Level 2 (Premium).
- Your account is locked due to too many failed login attempts. Wait 30 minutes or reset password.
- 2-factor authentication code expired. Request a new code.
Solution: Upgrade to DS Logon Level 2 at myaccess.dmdc.osd.mil (requires ID verification). Or contact your MTF's patient advocate for help.
"My records are missing or incomplete"
Possible causes:
- Records pre-date Genesis implementation at your base (not in the system yet)
- Civilian provider records (never entered into Genesis)
- Recent visits not yet documented by provider (can take 48-72 hours)
- Specialty records from another MTF not yet transferred
Solution: Contact your MTF's medical records office. They can investigate missing records and request transfers from other facilities if needed.
"Download keeps failing or timing out"
Possible causes:
- File is too large (years of records, lots of imaging)
- Poor internet connection or slow browser
- System maintenance or high traffic
Solution: Try downloading smaller date ranges (e.g., 6 months at a time) instead of "All Records". Use a wired connection if possible. Try during off-peak hours (early morning).
"CAC reader not working"
Possible causes:
- ActivClient or middleware not installed/updated
- CAC certificates expired
- Browser not configured for CAC authentication
Solution: Install ActivClient from militarycac.com. Clear browser certificates and re-insert CAC. Or use DS Logon as backup method.
"I'm seeing another family member's records"
This is a known issue when sponsors have multiple DEERS-enrolled family members.
Solution: Look for a "Switch Patient" or family member selector in the top-right corner of the portal. Click to select the correct family member. If this doesn't work, contact your MTF's patient advocate or help desk.
Quick Reference: MHS Genesis at a Glance
Portal URL
mhsgenesis.health.mil
Mobile App
"MHS Genesis" (iOS/Android)
Login Methods
CAC or DS Logon Level 2
Help Desk
1-844-MHSGENESIS (1-844-647-4363)
Records Included
MTF only, since Genesis rollout
Download Format
PDF or CCD/XML
CarryForward Organizes Your Complete Record
MHS Genesis only shows half the picture (MTF records). CarryForward helps you manage all your family's medical records in one place:
- Import from Genesis - Bulk upload your downloaded Genesis records
- Add civilian records - Track and store records from TRICARE providers
- Fill the gaps - Identify missing records and automatically generate request forms
- Pre-Genesis records - Scan and upload old paper records for complete history
- PCS-ready exports - Generate organized packets for EFMP, schools, new providers