Under what condition can third parties access a person's medical information?

Access to a person's medical information by third parties is primarily governed by laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States, which stipulates specific conditions under which medical information can be disclosed.

When proper release of information is authorized, it signifies that the individual has given informed consent through a signed release form. This consent must be explicit, detailing what information can be shared, with whom, and for what purpose. This legal framework ensures that individuals retain control over their own medical data, allowing for sharing only under agreed-upon circumstances. This is fundamental for protecting patient privacy while enabling healthcare providers to share necessary information when appropriate.

While individuals have the right to request access to their own medical information, and certain laws may require information to be shared in specific situations (such as emergencies), the standard procedure for third-party access is contingent on receiving proper authorization. This ensures all disclosures comply with ethical and legal standards, reinforcing the importance of patient confidentiality and autonomy in healthcare practices.