What is a Subpoena Duces Tecum for healthcare records?

A Subpoena Duces Tecum is indeed a legal document that directs a healthcare provider to produce documents, including health records, in a legal proceeding. This type of subpoena does not require the patient's authorization for the disclosure of their health information, as it is an order issued by a court or other authorized entity. The primary purpose is to ensure that relevant documents are made available for examination during legal proceedings, such as trials or depositions.

Understanding this function is crucial for healthcare professionals, as they must comply with such legal requirements while also being aware of privacy laws and regulations like HIPAA, which generally protect patient information. The other options describe different legal documents or agreements which do not pertain directly to the mandate of producing records in a legal context, nor do they address the specific authority of a subpoena in the matter of healthcare records.