Canadian Health Information Management Association Practice Exam

Which element is not required in a written patient authorization for release of information?

1. Name of the recipient

2. Purpose for information

3. Signature of the HIM manager

4. Signature of the patient

The correct answer is: Signature of the HIM manager

In a written patient authorization for the release of information, various elements are essential to ensure that the authorization is valid and compliant with privacy laws, particularly those governing health information. The name of the recipient is necessary because it indicates who will receive the information. The purpose of the information must also be specified so that the patient understands why their information is being shared. The signature of the patient is required to provide their consent, affirming that they agree to the release of their information. The signature of the Health Information Management (HIM) manager is not a required element in the patient authorization. This is because the authority to consent to the release of information rests with the patient themselves, and their signature is sufficient for granting permission. Including the HIM manager's signature is not necessary and does not impact the validity of the authorization from a legal or regulatory standpoint. Thus, this option is correctly identified as not required in the context of a written patient authorization for the release of information.