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Ethics & Law · single question

A patient requests that his records be sent to a new provider, but he has an owing balance on his account. What should the dentist do?

  1. Inform law enforcement
  2. Request 50% of previous treatment be paid prior to records being released
  3. Release the patient records
  4. Deny the patient's request
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. Deny the patient's request

  • A. Incorrect. Owing a balance does NOT give the dentist the right to withhold records. Under HIPAA, providers must release records regardless of outstanding balances.
  • B. Incorrect. Partial payment cannot be required as a condition of record release. HIPAA does not allow withholding records due to unpaid bills.
  • C. Incorrect. Informing law enforcement is not appropriate here — this is a civil/administrative matter governed by HIPAA, not a criminal issue.
  • D. Correct. Under HIPAA, providers must release records upon written request within 30 days regardless of outstanding balances. Failure to comply can result in a complaint to the state dental licensing board and fines.

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