Who owns the dental records after services are rendered?

The ownership of dental records falls to the dentist or the dental practice that provided the services. This is based on the principle that the dentist is responsible for maintaining complete and accurate patient records as part of their professional obligations. Dental records include not only a detailed account of the services rendered but also essential information regarding diagnosis, treatment plans, and patient interactions, which are crucial for ongoing care and legal purposes.

While patients have the right to access their records and to have accurate information about their treatment, they do not own the physical records. Dental insurance companies do not own the records either; their role primarily involves the administration of claims and benefits related to treatment. Similarly, the dental practice manager does not hold ownership over the records as they are considered the property of the practice and its healthcare providers.

This understanding is significant in the context of patient rights and medical record management, reinforcing the dentist's responsibility for confidentiality and the ethical handling of patient data.