When discussing access to health records in the clinic, which statement is correct?

• A. The doctor, clerical staff, and the nurse involved in care may view it.
• B. Only the doctor may view it.
• C. Any staff member may view it.
• D. The patient must authorize each viewing in writing.

Answer: (A)

Access to health records is limited to those who need to know to provide or support care, plus staff who handle the record for legitimate clinic tasks. In a clinic, the doctor and the nurse directly involved in the patient’s care must be able to review the chart to plan and deliver treatment. Clerical staff who are involved in managing the record—such as scheduling, billing, or coordinating care—also need access to perform their duties. This access is controlled and role-based, ensuring information is viewed only for tasks related to the patient’s care and clinic operations.

It’s not correct to say that any staff member may view the record, as that would breach privacy. Nor is it necessary for the patient to authorize each internal viewing; patients do have broad rights to their own records and to authorize releases to external parties, but internal access for care and administrative tasks follows legitimate, need-to-know rules.