When providing medical records to a patient, what is required?

In the context of providing medical records to a patient, a written request is required to ensure that the process is formal and follows established protocols for privacy and security. This requirement serves multiple purposes, including verifying the identity of the requester and ensuring that the request is documented for accountability.

Requiring a written request aligns with regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which emphasizes the need for proper documentation and authorization when it comes to sharing protected health information. Written requests also provide clarity on what is being requested, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings or disputes.

While it might seem convenient to rely on verbal approval or a phone call, these methods do not provide the same level of protection for patient privacy and may lead to confusion about what has been requested or what will be provided. Thus, a written request is the standard practice to maintain the integrity of the patient's records and comply with legal requirements.