What should be done if a client requests a copy of their pet’s medical record?

When a client requests a copy of their pet’s medical record, it is important to recognize that while clients have the right to access their records, there can be associated copying fees. This is because the process of retrieving, copying, and providing these records incurs costs for the veterinary practice. Veterinarians and veterinary technicians are required to adhere to regulations regarding the provision of medical records, which may allow for reasonable fees to be charged for the service, helping to cover the practice's administrative expenses.

Providing medical records without charge may not be typical policy for all practices, as practices may need to manage their operational costs. Likewise, the requirement for the copy to be provided in person might not be a universal standard, nor are there circumstances where no copy can be provided at all, as long as the request is legitimate and adheres to the governing laws and regulations.

Thus, the understanding that copying fees may apply is essential knowledge for veterinary technicians, enabling them to effectively communicate policies to clients while ensuring that practices remain viable.