What right do patients have concerning the copying of their PHI?

Patients have the right to access their Protected Health Information (PHI) and can utilize their own resources to make copies without incurring any fees. This right is rooted in the principle of patient autonomy, ensuring that individuals can manage their health information as they see fit. The ability to make copies themselves empowers patients to maintain control over their health records and facilitates their ability to share this information with other healthcare providers or for personal use.

Additional context about the other options includes that while healthcare entities are required to provide patients with copies of their PHI upon request, the patients also have the option to make their own copies. It's important for patients to understand that they are not limited to only requesting copies from the entity, nor are they restricted from making copies themselves. These provisions aim to increase transparency and access to health information for patients, supporting their rights and involvement in their own healthcare management.