What do open record statutes typically address?

Open record statutes typically focus on the principle of transparency in governmental and public records, including healthcare documents. They often emphasize that records should be accessible to the public unless there are specific exemptions that justify confidentiality.

In the context of healthcare, these statutes help ensure that patient information, while generally confidential, can be disclosed under certain circumstances, reflecting a presumption towards transparency rather than secrecy. This balance is crucial for public trust and accountability, allowing for oversight of healthcare practices and policies.

The emphasis on disclosure aligns with the fundamental goals of open record statutes, which aim to provide the public with access to records while still acknowledging the need for privacy protections in sensitive situations.