Part 2: Basic Patient Rights (FAQ 18 of 65)

Right to Inspect and Copy Your Record

18. Why Both Inspect and Copy?

HIPAA provides each patient with the right to inspect his or her record and to have a copy of the record. These are two different rights. You cannot be charged a fee if you want to inspect your records. This means that you can always see your record, even if you don't want to pay.

If you want a copy of the record to take with you, then you can be charged a fee. You can also be charged an additional fee if you ask for a summary or explanation of your record. You do not have to ask for a summary or explanation.

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