Common questions

Do dentists have access to your medical history?

Do dentists have access to your medical history?

Yes. You are entitled to a copy of your records on paper or, if the dentist is required to comply with HIPAA, an electronic copy. The original records belong to the dental practice. The dental practice may require you submit a written request but may not unreasonably delay access to your information.

What information is recorded in a patient’s dental history?

Records Management The dental record, also referred to as the patient chart, is the official office document that records all diagnostic information, clinical notes, treatment performed and patient-related communications that occur in the dental office, including instructions for home care and consent to treatment.

How often should a patient be asked to update their medical and dental history?

How often should a medical history be updated? An update should be accomplished at least once a year, or whenever the patient has a major change in health.

Can pharmacists see your medical history?

Hospital pharmacists have full access to patient health records, laboratory results and previous treatment. Anything less than this would be considered unsafe.

Who owns the patient’s original dental records?

dentist
The dentist owns the physical record of the patient and is the legal guardian of the chart and its complete contents, including radiographs. While patients do not have the right to possess their original record, they do have the right to see, review, and inspect their record, and to request and obtain a copy of it.

What are the main sections of filling out a dental patient’s medical record?

The record may consist of several different elements, which include written notes, radiographs, study models [Figures ​1–2], referral letters, consultants’ reports, clinical photographs, results of special investigations, drug prescriptions, laboratory prescriptions, patient identification information, and a …

Why is dental history important?

A patient’s medical history is a vital part of his or her dental history and increases the dentist’s awareness of diseases and medication which might interfere with the patient’s dental treatment.

How do I update my medical history?

Updates to medical histories may be accomplished by the patient filling out an additional form or by answering questions verbally. Patient responses should be documented in the original medical history or in a supplemental form specifically designed for updates.

How do I find someone’s medical history?

“Normally, one would simply have to call the health care provider and request a copy of the record and pick them up, after signing a release for the records,” Ennis said. “If they want them mailed or are gathering them from a hospital, they will be required to sign a medical authorization release form first.”

Why are patient rights important in dental care?

To instill confidence in the health system, a number of dental associations and practices issued bills of patient rights, educating patients with regards to what they should expect during dental treatment. A decade later, patient rights issues continue to be relevant.

When did the ADA issue the dental patient Bill of Rights?

In 2009, the American Dental Association (ADA) issued a Dental Patient Rights and Responsibilities (DPRR) Statement that outlined the entitled rights and protections for all individuals receiving dental treatment.

What are the essentials of dental history taking?

Essentials of medical history-taking in dental patients The starting point in the assessment and management of any patient is dependent on good history-taking. The main parts of the history-taking process well known to practitioners are the presenting complaint, the history of the presenting complaint and the current and past medical history.

Where can I find a dental patient Bill of Rights?

A number of state and specialty dental associations, clinics and private practices offer a patient bill of rights. You are likely to find these patient rights posted in the reception area, in brochures or on organization web sites.