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Delaware Handbook: Record Release

WHAT IS THE PROPER PROCEDURE FOR RELEASING COPIES OF MEDICAL RECORDS?

Medical records contain confidential information protected by a number of federal and state laws. The written authorization of the patient (or the patient’s legal representative) is necessary to release records to any outside parties for any purpose other than treatment, payment, or healthcare operations. There are a few exceptions to this rule, including suspected cases of child abuse and certain diseases, which must be reported by law. However, subject to these exceptions, a patient must sign a proper medical records release form before information legally may be sent to an outside party. The completed release form may be sent electronically if the patient’s signature…

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