AMA releases playbook to aid patient record sharing

The American Medical Association (AMA) released a new playbook on February 26 to enhance patients’ access to their own medical records.

The Patient Records Electronic Access Playbook covers a wide range of topics related to the sharing of medical records. According to the AMA, the 104-page document focuses on “dispelling myths around HIPAA and helping physicians and their practices understand their obligations to provide patients with access to their health information.”

The playbook was designed as an educational tool and reference material for any medical professional—from physicians to medical assistants to medical records personnel—involved in the sharing of patient health records.

The AMA provides a comprehensive overview of HIPAA and patient -access laws, including timing for record request fulfillment, third-party requests, and the sharing of patient records on digital apps.

“Not only is electronic patient access a step toward better care and lower costs, but it is also every patient’s right,” AMA authors wrote. “Federal and state laws provide patients the right to obtain access to much of their health information.”

In addition, the playbook offers recommended steps organizations can take to make these processes effective and efficient for all parties involved.

The entire playbook is available for download. The AMA also provided a “key points to remember” document, which includes a patient records request flowchart that organizations can use as a point of reference.