If an extension is required to provide records, what must the provider do?

When an extension is needed to provide records, it is essential for the provider to inform the patient of the new timeline. This is important for several reasons. First, it demonstrates transparency and maintains trust between the provider and the patient. Patients have a right to access their medical records, and keeping them informed about any delays helps manage their expectations regarding when they will receive this information.

Additionally, communicating the new timeline allows patients to plan accordingly, especially if they need the records for specific purposes such as continuing treatment or seeking a second opinion. This kind of patient-centered communication is critical to maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship and adhering to ethical obligations within the healthcare profession.

The other options do not fulfill the necessary requirements surrounding the provision of records. For example, notifying the medical board or charging additional fees are not typically part of the protocol for handling extensions, while canceling the request entirely would not serve the patient’s needs or rights regarding access to their records.