The authorization for release of medical records must include which of the following?

The correct answer emphasizes the necessity for the authorization for release of medical records to state the purpose of the disclosure. This requirement is fundamental for ensuring that patients understand why their information is being shared and with whom. By including the purpose, the authorization not only promotes transparency and informed consent but also supports compliance with legal regulations regarding patient privacy, such as those stated in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Moreover, specifying the purpose helps to limit the use of medical records to the stated intent and protects against unnecessary or inappropriate disclosures, thus safeguarding the patient's privacy and maintaining trust in healthcare practices.

In contrast, including a list of all healthcare providers may be overly broad and unnecessary, as the focus should be on the specific entities that will use the information for the stated purpose. The requirement for a patient's full social history is generally irrelevant to the authorization process and not typically necessary for the disclosure of medical records. Lastly, providing a vague description of the records does not meet the legal standards for informed consent, as it would not furnish the necessary clarity for patients about what specific information is being released.