Is it permissible to charge a patient a fee for their results in a non-electronic format?

Charging a patient a fee for their results in a non-electronic format is not permitted under California chiropractic law. This regulation exists to ensure patient access to their medical information without unnecessary financial barriers. Patients have the right to receive their health information, and imposing fees can be viewed as impeding that access.

In a clinical context, when patients request their results, the focus is on facilitating their understanding and continuity of care. Charging a fee for physical copies or non-electronic formats could potentially limit a patient’s access to vital health information, which is why the law does not allow it. This approach upholds the ethical obligation of healthcare providers to prioritize patient welfare and transparency in healthcare communication.