What is the best practice when preparing a copy of a medical record for a patient?

When preparing a copy of a medical record for a patient, the best practice is to keep the original record and send a copy. This approach ensures the integrity and security of the original medical record while providing the patient with the necessary information they need. Retaining the original protects it from potential loss or damage, which could interfere with ongoing patient care or legal requirements.

Moreover, patient records are confidential and often require meticulous handling. By providing a copy, the healthcare provider can also ensure that sensitive information is shared appropriately and that the original remains accessible for future healthcare decisions. This method aligns with legal standards regarding medical records, where maintaining accurate, complete records is crucial.

In contrast, making a photocopy and disposing of the original could lead to loss of valuable information that might be needed later, while sending the original could expose the record to risks of not being returned or getting damaged in transit. Scanning and emailing the record also poses security risks unless proper encryption and secure methods are used, which may not always be feasible or compliant with regulations governing medical record sharing.