Which document must accompany a subpoena for medical records to be valid?

The requirement for a written patient authorization or a court order to accompany a subpoena for medical records is grounded in privacy laws and regulations concerning personal health information. Health care providers are bound by confidentiality laws, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which protect patient information.

When a subpoena is issued, it does not automatically authorize the release of medical records unless the patient's consent is obtained or there is a court order that specifically directs the release of the information. The written patient authorization ensures that the healthcare provider has received appropriate permission from the patient to disclose their medical records. In cases where a patient's authorization is unattainable, a court order serves as a legal directive, compelling the release of the records despite the absence of patient consent.

This safeguard ensures that patient privacy is respected while allowing for the necessary legal processes to occur. The other options, such as a witness statement or a notarized affidavit from the doctor, do not fulfill the legal requirements regarding the disclosure of sensitive medical information. Additionally, a medical file release form may be relevant in some contexts but does not replace the necessity for either patient consent or a court order when responding to a subpoena.