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Increasing patient satisfaction is one of the top goals of value-based care, and patient data access can be a key way to reach that goal. However, both patients and providers are often unsure about patients being able to access their own health information.

Providers may be hesitant because they are uncertain whether or not a patient will fully understand what is being said in her clinician notes. Patients may not even understand their rights under the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules, and may not ask to see their own information.

Educating patients and providers about patient data access, including what is allowed, will be key as healthcare works toward value-based care and its accompanying goal of nationwide interoperability.