Image
Chronicles Banner 1

Don't miss the April 2023 edition!

We know you count on us to keep you up to date with the most important information in the profession. We have compiled updates, blogs, and news for you into this convenient digital publication.

Download Now
Telemedicine

Need more guided help? Work with a KMC coach 1-on-1

Sometimes you need more than a self-service, on-demand program and need an expert to analyze your issues, train the corrections, and help you implement the changes, so they stick

Learn More
FWA announcement

New Course! | Fraud, Waste, and Abuse

Each year, billions of dollars are spent improperly because of Fraud, Waste, and Abuse. It affects everyone—including Chiropractic providers and teams.

Learn More!
OIG

There's no need to fear the OIG. We've got your back!

The most effective chiropractic OIG compliance programs are scaled according to the size of the practice!

Learn More

Chiropractic Documentation and HIPAA

Who Owns a Chiropractic Patient’s Record?

The question about who actually owns the chiropractic patient’s x-rays and patient records comes up often when a patient decides to seek care elsewhere. Some doctors think the best way to insure payment for services rendered, if the patient has a balance due, is to not release the x-ray films or patient records to another office. That choice is not the wisest course of action. You must abide by HIPAA regulations.

What Do I Have to Do with My Chiropractic Documentation to Be HIPAA Compliant?

According to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), the physician owns the patient’s medical record and is required to securely maintain the patient record for a set period of time. Keep in mind, there are slight variances according to state law with respect to minors, worker’s compensation, and psychiatric patient records. However, HIPAA grants five specific entitlements to the patient that relate to the information in the patient records. The right to:

  • Know how Protected Health Information (PHI) is handled in your practice
  • Request their confidential information
  • Review and/or have a copy their confidential information
  • Request inaccuracies in their record be corrected
  • Know who has accessed their medical record

The doctor is not required to release the original record; however, the patient has the right to a copy of their record. It is appropriate to charge reasonable fees to cover the cost of copying and postage if it is needed.

Back to: Chiropractic Documentation Basics

Image Image

Kathy has always been a great resource. Would recommend KMC University very highly!

Richard Buchanan