Ethics & Law · single question
Which of the following does NOT need a court order to access a patient's record?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Forensic dentist
- A. Insurance companies require patient authorization (HIPAA release form) OR a court order to access dental records — they do not have automatic access.
- B. Another treating dentist needs either patient authorization or a referral-based purpose — a court order is not typically required, but patient consent is.
- C. An attorney typically needs either a subpoena (court order equivalent) or patient consent to access dental records.
- D. A FORENSIC DENTIST (working in official capacity for law enforcement or legal proceedings — e.g., victim identification) does NOT need a traditional court order in some jurisdictions because forensic odontology is conducted under legal authority of the medical examiner or coroner's office. ⚠️ FLAG — The source author was '100% not sure' about this answer. Study groups should verify specific HIPAA exceptions for forensic dentistry.