What is the protocol for handling patient records in North Carolina?

The protocol for handling patient records in North Carolina requires that they be kept confidential and secure according to HIPAA regulations. This federal law establishes standards to protect sensitive patient information from being disclosed without the patient's consent. HIPAA mandates that healthcare providers implement safeguards to ensure the privacy and security of patient records, which includes both physical and electronic forms.

This means that patient records must be protected against unauthorized access and breaches, which aligns with the ethical obligations of healthcare providers to maintain patient confidentiality. Compliance with these regulations is critical not only to protect patients' rights but also to avoid legal repercussions and penalties that may arise from non-compliance.

The other options do not align with established laws and best practices for patient record management. For instance, sharing patient information with anyone upon request would violate patient privacy rights and potentially breach HIPAA regulations. Additionally, while electronic storage is commonly used, it is not the only acceptable method; therefore, stating that records must only be stored electronically is incorrect. Finally, it is imperative that patient records be secured, and stating that there is no requirement for security directly contradicts legal expectations surrounding patient confidentiality and information protection.