Under what condition must you provide free copies of patient records?

Providing free copies of patient records is typically mandated when the request is made with the intent of serving a public health benefit. This requirement acknowledges the importance of maintaining public health standards and the role that patient information can play in addressing broader health concerns, such as disease outbreaks or health monitoring initiatives. When the intent is to harness these records for the greater good of the public, healthcare providers, including chiropractors, are often obliged to comply without charging fees.

In contrast, the other conditions listed do not inherently require the provider to furnish records at no charge. Requests from a family member do not automatically grant access to records, as patient confidentiality needs to be respected. Legal purposes may require a formal request or subpoena, which often involves fees associated with the copying of records. Moreover, while minor patients may have certain protections regarding their health records, laws typically do not mandate free access based solely on a patient's minor status. Thus, under circumstances reflecting a public health benefit, the provision of records without charge becomes essential.