The chiropractor must consider how the Chiropractic Oath, the chiropractic Code of Ethics, current legislation and even judicial views bear relevance to the confidentiality of patient health records. What professional and statutory duties does the chiropractor have to the patient, to the law and to moral obligation? Is the doctor-patient relationship a contractual commitment? Can a patient record be shown to a third party not involved in the care and treatment of the patient? Discussion centers on the Health Insurance Act, the Coroners Act, the Drugless Practitioners Act and the Insurance Act in Ontario. While the focus is with Ontario, the general intent is applicable to most provinces, although statutory and regulatory definitions may vary. Access to confidential records by statutory right is examined in part, and how the role of the chiropractor is affected.

 

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