Which step should NOT be included in a health information department's procedure for preparing health records in response to a subpoena?

Which step should NOT be included in a health information department's procedure for preparing health records in response to a subpoena?

• A. Number the pages
• B. Remove pages containing detrimental information
• C. Photocopy the record
• D. Ensure the patient's name is present on every page

Answer: (B)

In preparing health records in response to a subpoena, it is crucial to maintain the integrity and completeness of the records being provided. The act of removing pages containing what might be considered detrimental information compromises the reliability of the health records and could lead to legal violations, especially in the context of subpoenas where the scope of the request is legally binding. In this context, it is important for the health information department to present a complete and unaltered record. Numbering the pages, photocopying the record, and ensuring that the patient’s name is present on every page are all steps that contribute to the clarity, organization, and identification of the records. These practices safeguard against misunderstandings and misuse of the record and uphold the professionalism expected in handling sensitive health information. Maintaining the full context of the record is essential in legal situations to ensure the accuracy and trustworthiness of the documentation provided.

In preparing health records in response to a subpoena, it is crucial to maintain the integrity and completeness of the records being provided. The act of removing pages containing what might be considered detrimental information compromises the reliability of the health records and could lead to legal violations, especially in the context of subpoenas where the scope of the request is legally binding.

In this context, it is important for the health information department to present a complete and unaltered record. Numbering the pages, photocopying the record, and ensuring that the patient’s name is present on every page are all steps that contribute to the clarity, organization, and identification of the records. These practices safeguard against misunderstandings and misuse of the record and uphold the professionalism expected in handling sensitive health information. Maintaining the full context of the record is essential in legal situations to ensure the accuracy and trustworthiness of the documentation provided.