American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Practice Test

What should a massage therapist inform a client regarding their medical records?

1. They are subject to subpoena

2. They can be shared with any health care provider at the therapist's discretion

3. They cannot be shared with anyone without the client's consent

4. They can legally be reviewed by anyone who requests them

The correct answer is: They are subject to subpoena

The aspect of medical records being subject to subpoena underscores the importance of confidentiality and legal obligations surrounding client information. A subpoena is a legal document that orders an individual to provide testimony or evidence in a legal proceeding, which can include medical records. This means that in the event of a legal dispute, such as a court case, a therapist's records could be required to be handed over to legal authorities if they're deemed relevant. This reinforces the necessity for therapists to maintain accurate and protected documentation of client sessions while being aware of the legal frameworks in which they operate. Understanding this helps clients recognize their privacy rights while also acknowledging that there are certain circumstances under which their records can be accessed, thus highlighting the balance between confidentiality and legal requirements.