Can patients access their own health records directly through an electronic health record (EHR) system?

• A. Yes, always
• B. No
• C. Sometimes
• D. Only with a physician's approval

Answer: (B)

Access to a patient’s health information is governed by privacy and release processes. While the EHR contains all the data, patients do not automatically see everything in the chart without a mediated step. Access is typically granted through a secure process—such as a patient portal or a formal records request—so identity can be verified and what can be released can be determined. Because this direct, unmediated access is not guaranteed in all settings, the general answer is that patients do not access their records directly through the EHR in every case. In practice, many systems offer patient portals, but still require authentication and appropriate authorization to view or obtain data.