Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of a subpoena duces tecum?

1. To require a person to appear in court.

2. To compel the production of documents.

3. To affirm statements made under oath.

4. To request financial records only.

The correct answer is: To compel the production of documents.

The primary purpose of a subpoena duces tecum is to compel the production of documents. This legal instrument is used in various legal proceedings when one party needs access to specific documents or records that are relevant to the case. It does not necessarily require a person to appear in court, as that is the function of a different type of subpoena. Instead, a subpoena duces tecum focuses solely on obtaining documents and tangible evidence that could provide crucial information for the legal process. In the context of legal and health information management, this can be particularly important for accessing patient records, medical histories, or institutional documents that are pertinent to a case. This ensures that all relevant information is considered, helping to uphold the integrity of the legal process. Other options describe different types or aspects of legal instruments but do not capture the specific focus of a subpoena duces tecum on document production. For instance, while a subpoena can require someone to appear in court, that falls outside the scope of duces tecum. Affirming statements made under oath relates to depositions or affidavits rather than document production. Additionally, the emphasis on financial records is too narrow, as a subpoena duces tecum can request a wide range of documents beyond just financial matters.