Open access.

Recent legislation granting patients immediate open access to any and all medical records has many oncologists, per usual, weighing the risks and benefits. This pragmatic survey assessed patients' expectations and reactions to viewing their own oncology notes. Among 136 respondents to a baseline questionnaire, virtually all expected access to increase understanding of their diagnosis and their treatment goals and side effects. Among 88 respondents after viewing their notes, again almost all agreed it did increase understanding. However, 11% noted increased worry, 6% increased confusion, and 4% regret reading information. | Shaverdian, Pract Radiat Oncol 2021