What Legal and Ethical Considerations Are Involved in Cancer Record Keeping?
There are significant legal and ethical considerations in cancer record keeping. Healthcare providers must comply with regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States, which mandates the protection of patient privacy and the secure handling of medical information. Ethically, providers have a duty to maintain accurate and complete records to ensure patient safety and quality of care. Mismanagement of records can lead to legal repercussions, loss of trust, and harm to patients.