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Ethics & Law · single question

A patient asks for their dental records but owes money on their account. What should the dentist do?

  1. Release records only to the new dentist directly
  2. Require payment before any records are released
  3. Release the records AND send a separate bill to the patient's address
  4. Withhold records until payment is received
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. Release the records AND send a separate bill to the patient's address

  • A. Records belong to the patient — they can be released directly to the patient or any party the patient designates. Limiting release only to the new dentist without patient consent would also be inappropriate.
  • B. Payment cannot be a precondition for records release — this violates patient rights.
  • C. Correct. Patients have a LEGAL RIGHT to access their dental records regardless of outstanding balances. Withholding records for non-payment is illegal and an HIPAA violation. The dentist must release the records promptly and separately send the bill through appropriate billing channels.
  • D. Withholding records for non-payment violates patient rights and HIPAA — this is illegal.

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