What process verifies that a copy of a patient record is an exact duplicate of the original?

The certification process is the correct choice because it specifically involves formally attesting that a copy of a patient record is an exact duplicate of the original. This process often includes measures to ensure accuracy, such as confirming that the copy is complete and unchanged, which is crucial in healthcare settings for maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of medical records.

In many legal and administrative situations, certified records may be necessary to demonstrate compliance with regulations or for use in legal proceedings. The certification process typically involves a designated individual or body—such as a healthcare administrator or a legal team—who has the authority to affirm the authenticity of the documents.

The other options do not specifically address the exact duplication of patient records. The authentication protocol generally refers to the methods used to verify the identity of users accessing records rather than verifying the records themselves. The verification method might be a broader term that could imply various checks and balances but lacks the formal assurance that certification provides. Standardization procedures focus more on ensuring consistency across documentation practices rather than confirming the identity of specific records.