Release of Dental Records

What to do if a patient requests their records. 
If a patient requests access to (or a copy of) their dental records, dentists are required under legislation to respond to that request within 30 days (or less if possible) – see: Health information | OAIC.    

It is the patient only who has the right to access or request a copy of their health information (ie: other individuals, family members, or organisations must provide consent from the patient themselves to request a copy of the record).  

ADA SA has prepared a template document which you can amend or utilise for this purpose. 

Please be aware that privacy legislation allows for an appropriate charge to be made for providing the patient with a copy of their dental records. The guidelines, however state that ‘these charges should not be excessive and should not discourage an individual from accessing their records.’ You should also be aware that privacy legislation does not require any type of transcript of the records, or an explanatory report. It only mandates that copies of the records be provided. Do not ever give the patient thier original records – these should be retained by the practice.

The above information represents general guidance in relation to records requests and will apply in most cases. However, we acknowledge that specific situations do arise which are either unusual or require specific advice or guidance.

If you should have any questions in relation to patient record requests, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 08 8272 8111 or admin@adasa.asn.au.