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North Carolina Handbook: Record Release

WHAT IS THE PROPER PROCEDURE FOR RELEASING COPIES OF MEDICAL RECORDS?

Medical records contain highly confidential information protected by a number of federal and state laws. The proper procedure for releasing copies of medical records depends, in part, on the type of information contained in the medical records, to whom copies of the records are to be provided, and for what purpose or purposes.
Generally speaking, the written authorization of the patient (or the patient’s legal representative) is necessary in order to release copies of medical records to any outside parties for any purpose other than treatment, payment, or healthcare operations. There are a few exceptions to this rule, including suspected cases of child abuse and certain…

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