In which of the following circumstances can the EMT legally release confidential patient information?

• A. The family requests a copy for insurance purposes
• B. A police officer requests a copy to place on file
• C. A media representative inquires about the patient
• D. The patient is competent and signs a release form

Answer: (D)

Confidential patient information can be released only with the patient’s authorization or when there's a legal requirement. When a patient is competent, they control disclosure by signing a release form that specifies who may receive the information and what may be disclosed. This signed release provides clear, permissible consent for the EMT to share the patient’s information, which is why this scenario is the correct one.

The other situations lack that explicit, patient-provided permission. Sharing with a family member for insurance purposes generally requires the patient’s written consent. A police officer’s request isn’t automatically allowed unless there’s a subpoena or other legal process. A media representative also isn’t entitled to information without consent or a legal obligation.