What steps should be taken when a patient requests to transfer to another provider?

• A. Obtain written authorization for the transfer; release records promptly; coordinate continuity of care.
• B. Deny transfer requests to retain patient.
• C. Only release records after a court order.
• D. Charge a transfer fee before releasing records.

Answer: (A)

When a patient requests to transfer to another provider, the priority is to ensure continuity of care while honoring the patient’s privacy rights. The best approach is to obtain written authorization from the patient (or their legal representative) to release the records, promptly release those records to the designated provider, and coordinate the transition so the new clinician has what they need to continue treatment. This sequence protects patient rights under privacy regulations and prevents gaps in care, while making the transfer efficient for both patient and receiving clinician. Releasing records without authorization would violate privacy rules, and requiring a court order is unnecessary for a routine transfer. Charging a transfer fee before releasing records creates an unnecessary barrier to care and is not standard practice.