When are students allowed to view patients' electronic medical records?

Students are allowed to view patients' electronic medical records when there is a treatment relationship with the patient. This means that the student must be involved in the direct care or treatment of the patient to access their medical records. This rule ensures that patient confidentiality and privacy are maintained, as the information obtained is necessary for the student's training and understanding of patient care.

In practical terms, this means that if a student is part of a healthcare team caring for a patient, they may access records to learn about the patient's medical history and contribute to their treatment plan. Accessing electronic medical records without a legitimate treatment relationship infringes on patient privacy rights and can violate HIPAA regulations, which strictly dictate when and how patient information can be accessed and shared. This underscores the importance of accountability and professionalism in handling sensitive patient information in a healthcare setting.