What must a requestor provide to authorize the release of medical information?

To authorize the release of medical information, a requestor must provide a written consent form signed by the patient or their legal representative. This requirement is in place to ensure that the patient's privacy rights are respected and to comply with regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The signed consent serves as legal documentation that the patient has agreed to the sharing of their medical information with a specific individual or entity, thereby safeguarding against unauthorized disclosures.

The requirement for a signed written consent emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clear and formal agreement regarding the sharing of sensitive medical data. It also ensures that patients are aware of who will have access to their health information, and under what circumstances, which is essential for maintaining trust in the patient-provider relationship.

In contrast, verbal agreements lack the necessary documentation to confirm consent, and a doctor's recommendation or a government-issued ID does not fulfill the legal requirement of having explicit consent from the patient for information release. Therefore, a written consent form is crucial in complying with legal and ethical standards governing the release of medical information.