Whether individuals should be allowed to see and correct their health records evokes controversy that revolves about citizens' rights to know what information is kept on them, society's duty to protect individuals' and doctors' rights, and the rights of employers and other parties to maintain the confidentiality of their files. A review of the viewpoints of health professionals, the current laws and regulations attending to the controversy, and major organizations and issues that prompt debate of the topic creates the appearance that there is no consensus on the wisdom of granting individuals access to their medical records. Whether or not medical record access for individuals becomes a concrete privilege, it promises to serve as a controversial stepping stone for the discussion of other rights among consumers. (RL)