Should patients have access to their medical files?

Con: Patients have different levels of knowledge and understanding regarding medical science. They often need to have data explained to them. So complete access to their medical files would only enable them to obtain data some of which they might not understand and some of which they might misinterpret. The decision regarding the revelation of the contents of a patient's medical files to the patient ought to be made by the professionals involved with the case.

Pro: Medical information is personal information. Patients have the right to obtain all information regarding their medical status.

Pro: When the patient has access to personal medical information, the patient can share it as desired with additional professionals for evaluation and recommendations. This gives the patient more options for obtaining good medical care.