SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hipaa-access-electronic

A patient asks for an electronic copy of records the clinic keeps electronically. What must the clinic do?

Provide it electronically, in the form requested if readily producible.

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  1. Give it in the requested electronic form if readily producible ✔
  2. Print it on paper only
  3. Refuse, since electronic copies are risky

Why: If records are kept electronically and the patient asks for an electronic copy, the entity must provide it in the electronic form requested if readily producible, or another readable electronic form they agree on.

Huh, didn't know that: The right of access lasts as long as the information is kept in the designated record set.

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References

Answer: Give it in the requested electronic form if readily producible. If records are kept electronically and the patient asks for an electronic copy, the entity must provide it in the electronic form requested if readily producible, or another readable electronic form they agree on.

  1. 45 CFR 164.524 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-C/part-164/subpart-E/section-164.524
    the covered entity must provide the individual with access to the protected health information in the electronic form and format requested
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. 45 CFR 164.524 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-C/part-164/subpart-E/section-164.524
    for as long as the protected health information is maintained in the designated record set
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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