For the Record explores ways of protecting health information that is increasingly collected, used, and stored in electronic form. The book recommends a number of steps health care organizations can take within their own institutions to improve privacy and security while ensuring adequate access to information for purposes of care. It also identifies areas in which further research is needed.

The book discusses privacy concerns that stem from the unregulated flows of health information between organizations, such as providers, insurers, suppliers, and oversight agencies, and calls for a renewed national debate for addressing this issue.