What is a necessary characteristic of all patient records managed by dental hygienists?

One of the most critical characteristics of patient records managed by dental hygienists is that they should remain confidential. This confidentiality is paramount due to legal and ethical obligations under laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which mandates that patient information be protected and shared only with authorized personnel. Maintaining the confidentiality of patient records fosters trust between the patient and the dental hygienist, encouraging open communication about health issues and treatment without fear of privacy violations.

In addition to legal requirements, confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of patient rights, allowing individuals to have control over their own health information. By ensuring that records are confidential, dental hygienists uphold both ethical standards and legal obligations while providing quality care to patients.