Abortion Confidentiality:

Health care providers have clearly defined procedures for handling and releasing medical records due to the confidential information contained therein. Although medical records are confidential, there are times when they can be released without a patient's consent.

Strict rules apply to those who receive medical information. They are required to have procedures to protect the patient's confidentiality and prevent the inappropriate release of medical information and/or patient identity. Nevertheless, there are special cases where records are released to:

• Certain qualified and approved individuals or organizations that perform services such as data processing, medical record transcription, microfilming, administrative functions, or other such related services.
• Health care workers who need the records to provide care.
• Lawyers and parties in a law suit, provided the patient's medical condition is an issue in the suit.
• Certain qualified and approved individuals or organizations for approved research and education functions.
• Government authorities, as permitted or required by law, for the investigation or regulation of health related issues such as child abuse, communicable diseases, and prescription drug matters.