Florida Chiropractic Laws and Rules (FCLR) Practice Exam

Which of the following is true about chiropractic patients' confidentiality?

1. Confidentiality is not necessary for minor patients

2. All private records should be kept for a minimum of 5 years

3. Patient records can be shared without consent if requested by an attorney

4. Chiropractors can discuss patient information freely in public spaces

The correct answer is: All private records should be kept for a minimum of 5 years

The choice indicating that all private records should be kept for a minimum of 5 years is correct because, according to Florida law, chiropractic practitioners are required to maintain patient records for at least that duration. This ensures that a patient's medical history and treatment are accessible for future reference, which is particularly important for ongoing patient care and legal compliance. Maintaining records for at least five years also upholds the principles of patient confidentiality and data protection. It supports the chiropractic practice in providing continuity of care, allows for information retrieval if needed for medical assessments, and is helpful in case of insurance claims or any disputes that may arise. In contrast, other options undermine the established legal and ethical standards regarding patient confidentiality. The notion that confidentiality is not necessary for minor patients disregards the legal protections that must be upheld for all patients, regardless of age. The idea that patient records can be shared without consent if requested by an attorney contradicts legal requirements, as consent is typically necessary to protect patient privacy. Lastly, the premise that chiropractors can discuss patient information freely in public spaces directly violates confidentiality principles and regulations that aim to protect patient privacy in professional settings.