Patient Medical Records

SCMG's records system conforms to the laws and regulations of the state of California.

Every Sharp Community Medical Group office maintains an effective records system that conforms to the laws and regulations of the state of California governing retention of active records, retirement of inactive records, data entry procedures and the release of medical information. Each office maintains a medical records system that provides procedures for collecting, processing, maintaining, storing, retrieving and distributing medical records of enrolled members.

The patient's medical record is an important source of vital information and must be complete and up-to-date to assure continuity of care. Clinical records provide appropriate and adequate clinical documentation of all care received to facilitate continuity of care for all medical problems addressed in the clinical record.

Confidentiality of Medical Records
The physicians of Sharp Community Medical Group ensure the confidentiality and the appropriate release of information concerning their patients' medical records.

Member medical records will be kept confidential and the information will be released only according to approved policy and procedure.

The office staff and providers may release medical record information only if a signed consent has been obtained from the member, the parent or legal guardian, or the person legally responsible for making medical decisions for the member.

Any person making copies of member record information will note the release in the departmental, medical or computer record and sign and date the entry.