writing on a medical record

Third party requests for medical records

You may receive requests from a third party for a patient’s medical records. This video will advise you about your clinical and legal responsibilities.

Sunday, 7 September 2025

You have an ethical and legal duty to keep your patients’ medical records confidential.

At the same time, medical records are often sought in legal proceedings or claims, and you may be asked to disclose them.

Many doctors contact Avant uncertain about their responsibilities when these requests arise.

In this video, Annabel Herron, Risk Adviser at Avant, explains what you need to know about your professional and legal duties.

Video

The information in this publication does not constitute legal, financial, medical or other professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. It is intended only to provide a summary and general overview on matters of interest and it is not intended to be comprehensive. Persons implementing any recommendations contained in this publication must exercise their own independent skill or judgement and seek appropriate professional advice relevant to their own particular circumstances. Compliance with any recommendations will not in any way guarantee discharge of the duty of care owed to patients and others coming into contact with the health professional or practice. Avant and its related entities are not responsible to any person for any loss suffered in connection with the use of this information. Information is only current at the date initially published.

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