What must a step-parent provide to obtain a child's dental records?

To obtain a child's dental records, a step-parent must provide a release of records. This is important because a release of records is a formal document that grants permission from a parent or legal guardian to share the child's medical or dental information. It ensures that the dental office is complying with privacy laws and regulations, such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), which protect the confidentiality of patient information, especially for minors.

In the context of dental records, without a proper release, the dental practice may not be able to disclose any information about the child’s records, as they need to confirm that the requester has the legal right to access that information. This step is crucial in maintaining patient confidentiality and ensuring that only authorized individuals can view sensitive health information.