Medical records and medical literacy

The 21st Century Cures Act is making it easier for patients to have access to their medical records. But will we understand what we read there? And are clinicians writing with patients in mind?

On April 5, 2021, a new federal rule mandates that healthcare providers make most medical records available to patients without charge and without blocking. It's a move proponents hope will promote transparency and collaboration between patients and clinicians.

But will clinicians tailor their language for patients? Will the average patient understand what's in the medical record? And will this move aimed at transparency cause more confusion than  clarity?

Healthcare attorney Nathan Kottkamp and palliative physician  Gregg VandeKieft join Seán Collins to discuss the new medical records rule and some ways patients and clinicians can use the change for their common good.

And then Maura Wozniak joins Seán to talk about how important it is for patients with chronic illness to understand their condition and their treatment options in order to fully participate in their own care. She has lived with cystic fibrosis her whole life and says it's "imperative" that you understand your medical condition. 

Nathan Kottkamp, JD

Partner

Waller Law Firm 

Nashville, Tenn.

Founder

National Healthcare Decisions Day

Gregg VandeKieft, MD

Medical Director

Palliative Practice Group

Providence Institute for Human Caring

Palliative Care Physician

Providence St. Peter Hospital

Olympia, Wash. 

Maura Wozniak

Patient living with Cystic Fibrosis

Charlotte, N.C.

FOR FURTHER READING:

21st Century Cures Act

OpenNotes

Advance Care Planning Decisions (videos)

National Healthcare Decisions Day (April 16)

Trusted Decision Maker (website)

Trusted Decision Maker  (podcast episode)

CONTRIBUTORS

• Maura Wozniak
• Seán Collins
• Gregg VandeKieft MD
• Nathan Kottkamp JD

KEYWORDS

• medical literacy
• ehr
• national healthcare decisions day (april 16)
• advance care planning
• medical records
• 21st century cures act
• patient autonomy