How does The HiTech Act enhance patient control over their health information?

The HiTech Act enhances patient control over their health information by establishing the right for patients to receive copies of their medical records. This provision empowers individuals to access their health data easily, promoting transparency and enabling them to be more actively involved in their healthcare decisions. Having the ability to obtain copies of their records allows patients to keep track of their health history, seek second opinions, or engage in shared decision-making with their healthcare providers.

This aspect of the HiTech Act is fundamental to supporting patient autonomy, as it fosters an environment where individuals can better understand their health conditions and treatment options. By strengthening patients' rights in this manner, the Act aims to encourage a more participatory approach to healthcare, where patients are not merely passive recipients of care but integral participants in managing their health information.