What are the four reasons medical records are kept?

Medical records are kept for several key reasons: to ensure continuity of care by providing healthcare professionals with a comprehensive history of a patient's medical history and treatments; to facilitate communication among various providers involved in a patient's care; for legal documentation, protecting both patients and providers in case of disputes; and to support billing and insurance processes by providing necessary information for reimbursements. Additionally, they play a crucial role in research and public health monitoring.