Empowered or abandoned: Immediate information without explanation

The 21st Century Cures Act has resulted in the automatic release of electronic health information (EHI) with the intent to increase patient access to their health record. The automatic release of EHI has potential to have a profound impact on patients’ experience in their breast cancer journey. While some may find it helpful to digest the information on their own, allowing them to come prepared with questions when meeting with their provider, others describe the negative impact of receiving a life-changing diagnosis or result without an associated prognosis or plan.3–5 As such, we feel compelled to discuss the immediate release of EHI in its current state and identify opportunities to enhance the shared experience for patients and their care team.