What should healthcare providers do if they receive a subpoena for patient records?

When healthcare providers receive a subpoena for patient records, the correct course of action is to consult legal counsel before taking any further steps. This is crucial because a subpoena is a legal document that mandates the production of evidence or testimony, and improper handling of it can lead to legal consequences for the provider and potentially breach patient confidentiality.

Consulting legal counsel ensures that the healthcare provider understands their legal obligations, including any rights the patient may have regarding the confidentiality of their medical records. Legal counsel can help determine if the subpoena is valid and whether any patient consent is needed for the release of specific records. Furthermore, they can advise on how to respond appropriately while protecting both the patient's privacy rights and the provider's legal standing.

Addressing the other options, simply ignoring the subpoena can result in legal penalties, including fines or other sanctions. Conversely, releasing all information without question disrupts the balance of legal and ethical obligations, as patient confidentiality must always be respected. Responding verbally without providing documents does not appropriately fulfill the legal request and can also lead to complications. Therefore, consulting legal counsel is the most prudent and responsible step for healthcare providers when faced with a subpoena.