Can medical records be used for legal purposes?

Yes, medical records can be used for legal purposes, such as in personal injury cases, malpractice lawsuits, or insurance claims. They provide crucial evidence regarding a patient's diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. However, the use of medical records in legal contexts is subject to privacy laws, such as HIPAA in the U.S., which regulate how patient information can be shared and accessed. Proper consent is often required to release these records for legal proceedings.