Illinois Statutes Chapter 225. Professions,Occupations and Business Operations § 115/25.17. Disclosure of patient records; maintenance

(a) No veterinarian shall be required to disclose any information concerning the veterinarian's care of an animal except on written authorization or other waiver by the veterinarian's client or on appropriate court order or subpoena. Any veterinarian releasing information under written authorization, or other waiver by the client, or court order of subpoena is not liable to the client or any other person. The privilege provided by this Section is waived to the extent that the veterinarian's client or the owner of the animal places the care and treatment or the nature and extent of injuries to the animal at issue in any civil or criminal proceeding. When communicable disease laws, cruelty to animal laws, or laws providing for public health and safety are involved, the privilege provided by this Section is waived.

(b) Copies of patient records must be released to the client upon written request as provided for by rule.

(c) Each person who provides veterinary medical services shall maintain appropriate patient records as defined by rule. The patient records are the property of the practice and the practice owner. Patient records shall, if applicable, include the following:

(d) Patient records must be maintained for a minimum of 5 years from the date of the last known contact with a patient.

(e) Information and records related to patient care shall remain confidential except as provided in subsections (a) and (b) of this Section.