What documentation is typically required for releasing medical records?

Releasing medical records is governed by strict regulations and requires adherence to patient privacy laws, such as HIPAA in the United States. A written consent form from the patient is typically the primary documentation required to ensure that the request for medical records is authorized. This consent form serves as a legal document that verifies the patient's permission for the healthcare provider to disclose their protected health information to a specified party. It helps to safeguard patient confidentiality and ensures compliance with legal requirements.

The other types of documentation mentioned, such as internal memos, verbal agreements, or board approvals, do not suffice as they lack the necessary patient-specific authorization and formal acknowledgment that the consent form provides. These alternatives do not offer the same level of accountability and traceability as a written consent, which is essential for both legal protection and ethical standards in healthcare.