What must a contractor do when duplicating records?

The requirement to not disclose any part of duplicated records and to return them to the provider is crucial for maintaining patient confidentiality and adhering to ethical standards in the field of optometry and healthcare in general. When a contractor duplicates records, these typically contain sensitive and private information about patients. Hence, it is essential to ensure that such records are safeguarded and that unauthorized access or disclosure does not occur.

Returning the duplicated records to the provider ensures that the original source maintains control over that information. This practice aligns with regulations such as HIPAA, which emphasizes the importance of protecting patient privacy and ensuring that any records are handled appropriately. By retaining confidentiality and returning records, the contractor fulfills their obligation to protect sensitive information while also respecting the rights of patients and healthcare providers.