A release of medical information form is used when?

A release of medical information form is primarily used when a client wishes to share their confidential files. This form is essential for protecting the privacy and confidentiality of the client's health information, as mandated by laws such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). When a client decides to share their medical records or any confidential information with another party, such as another healthcare provider, a health insurer, or even a family member, they must provide written consent via this form. This ensures that the client has control over who accesses their personal health information and that practitioners have the proper authorization to disclose that information.

While the other options may involve situations where consent might be relevant, they don't specifically require a medical release form. For instance, insurance billing generally involves consent that is part of the initial agreement when a client seeks treatment, and treatment plan modifications do not typically require sharing protected health information outside the existing provider-client relationship. Referrals might involve a different process, where practitioners can often communicate directly without needing a separate release form, particularly if they are within the same health care system.