Does a dental office legally need to release x-rays if patient has outstanding balance?

In the United States, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) generally requires healthcare providers to provide patients with access to their medical records, including x-rays, upon request. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, and state laws may also vary.

In some states, dental offices may be allowed to withhold medical records, including x-rays, if a patient has an outstanding balance. However, it is important to note that this is not always the case, and the specific laws and regulations governing this issue can vary from state to state.

In some cases, dental offices may be required to provide patients with access to their medical records, even if they have an outstanding balance, if the patient is unable to pay for the services. In other cases, dental offices may be allowed to charge a reasonable fee for providing copies of medical records.

To determine the specific laws and regulations governing this issue in your state, it is best to consult with a healthcare attorney or the relevant state regulatory agency.