Facsimile machines electronically transmit images to other fax machines via a telephone modem, where the image is reconstructed and printed. Physicians often use faxes for medical records, prescriptions, hospital and nursing home orders, and other information. Physicians should realize, however, that fax use may pose legal risks if used inappropriately. Although fax statutes and regulations are only beginning to be written, a fax transmission of medical information is still medical information, subject to the same rules on confidentiality and record retention that apply to medical records. This document was formerly #1146.