If a patient completes an authorization form, can they state "at the request of the patient" as the purpose for disclosure?

The assertion that a patient can state "at the request of the patient" as the purpose for disclosure is valid. This phrase signifies that the patient is the one initiating the request for their own health information to be shared. It aligns with the fundamental principle that individuals have the right to control their own health information and can authorize its release for various purposes, including personal use or further medical care.

In many cases, healthcare regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), emphasize the importance of patient consent and highlight the importance of patients being informed about their rights regarding the use and disclosure of their health information. By allowing the phrase, it shows the patient's agency in the disclosure process.

The other options suggest limitations or conditions that may not typically be required under the law. For instance, while additional clarity may sometimes enhance understanding, a specific phrase like "at the request of the patient" is straightforward and widely accepted. Similarly, the necessity for a patient’s signature or additional stipulations does not apply to this general practice, as the patient's completion of the authorization form itself signifies consent for the stated purpose.