What actions should a CRIS take when dealing with requests from third-party payers?

The recommended action for a Certified Release of Information Specialist (CRIS) when handling requests from third-party payers is to verify the request's legitimacy and ensure compliance with legal guidelines. It is essential to confirm that the request is valid and follows all applicable laws and regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This step not only protects the privacy of patients but also ensures the organization adheres to its legal obligations when disclosing sensitive information.

By assessing the legitimacy of the request, a CRIS can determine if the payer has the right to access the specific information requested, helping to safeguard patient rights and maintain trust. Ensuring compliance with legal guidelines further reinforces the importance of ethical data handling practices, which are crucial in the healthcare environment.

The other options suggest actions that may compromise the legality and ethicality of patient information handling, such as automatically denying valid requests or only responding directly to the patient, potentially overlooking the rights of authorized third-party payers. Consulting IT prior to responding does not address the immediate need for assessing legitimacy and compliance, which are critical first steps in this context.