Which of the following documentation is a valid authorization to release medical information to the judicial system?

• A. Subpoena duces tecum
• B. Medical release form
• C. Court order for medical records
• D. Attorney request letter

Answer: (A)

A subpoena duces tecum is the direct instrument used to compel the production of medical records in a legal proceeding. It functions as a formal authorization for the records custodian to release specific information to the court or to a party involved in the case. Because it’s issued under legal authority, it doesn’t rely on the patient’s personal consent and is enforceable, which is why it’s the standard tool for obtaining medical information for the judicial system.

A medical release form is a voluntary patient consent to disclose information to named recipients, not something that automatically applies to court proceedings. A court order for medical records also authorizes release, but it’s a separate legal mechanism; the subpoena duces tecum is the more commonly used instrument for requiring production in many proceedings. An attorney request letter alone isn’t a binding authorization to disclose records.