If a medical dispute arises, request sealed preservation of records with both parties present and a signed inventory for each
In China, records can be sealed to preserve evidence when a medical dispute arises. Both patient and institution should be present, sign or stamp an inventory, and retain a copy. If the records are incomplete, seal the completed portion first. If an infusion, transfusion, injection, or medicine is suspected, preserve the relevant fluid, drug, and administration equipment too.
What it takes
No charge for making the request. Allow time for both sides to complete the procedure. Raising the issue directly may feel uncomfortable.
What you may gain
The regulations require both parties to be present when records are sealed or unsealed for a medical dispute. Originals or copies may be sealed and are kept by the institution. Completed portions can be sealed first, with later portions sealed when finished. The institution must create an inventory signed or stamped by both parties, each retaining a copy. If harm is suspected from infusion, transfusion, injection, or medication, the parties should jointly seal and unseal the physical evidence. Testing must be commissioned jointly from a qualified body; if agreement is impossible, the county-level health authority where the institution is located designates one. If blood must be sealed after a suspected transfusion injury, the institution must notify the blood station to send a representative. Altering, fabricating, concealing, destroying, or seizing records is prohibited. The institution may unseal records itself once the dispute is resolved or after three years without a renewed request to resolve it. The rules took effect nationwide in China on October 1, 2018.
Context & considerations
Copying and sealing serve different purposes. Routine copies support your own records, as in entry 6. Sealing preserves evidence during a dispute against subsequent alteration. For a suspected fluid, blood, or medication problem, ask that the relevant bag, drug container, and infusion equipment be preserved with the records rather than discarded. Institutions must prominently publish dispute-resolution routes, procedures, and contact information and designate a complaints department. Start there rather than arguing with the doctor on duty.
Research & references
State Council (2018). Regulations on the Prevention and Handling of Medical Disputes, Order No. 701, Articles 15, 24, and 25. https://www.gov.cn/zhengce/zhengceku/2018-08/31/content_5318057.htm