If a patient requests a copy of their records, what must the practice do?

• A. Provide a copy of records
• B. Refuse and give a summary only
• C. Charge a fee and withhold
• D. Refuse unless a court order

Answer: (A)

Patients have the right to access their health information and to receive a copy of their dental records when they request it. The practice is typically required to provide a complete copy within a reasonable timeframe (often around 30 days) and in the format the patient asks for, if it can be reasonably provided (paper or electronic). A reasonable copying fee may be charged, but that does not excuse withholding the records. Providing only a summary or refusing the request would not meet these rights under privacy rules, and a court order is not normally needed for a routine access request. If any parts belong to someone else or are highly sensitive notes, those portions may be redacted while the patient still receives their own information.