Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

What is the maximum initial fee a health provider can charge for a request to copy a medical record?

1. $10.00

2. $20.00

3. $30.00

4. $50.00

The correct answer is: $20.00

The maximum initial fee a health provider can charge for a request to copy a medical record is established to ensure that patients can access their health information without facing prohibitive costs. In Michigan, the law stipulates that the initial fee for a request to copy medical records cannot exceed $20. This regulation is designed to foster transparency in healthcare, allowing individuals access to their own medical history while also ensuring that providers are compensated for the administrative costs associated with fulfilling such requests. This balance aims to promote patient autonomy and encourage individuals to stay informed about their health. The rationale behind establishing this specific maximum fee is to deter overcharging and ensure equitable access to medical records. Typically, charges may vary for additional copies or more extensive records, but the initial fee remains capped to facilitate easier communication between patients and their healthcare providers.