As a caregiver, many situations arise when you need access to the health information of a relative, friend, or patient. To gain this access, you need to fill out the Authorization for Disclosure of Health Information (ADHI). The ADHI is a form used to authorize Blue Cross to release your protected health information to another person or entity, and it only authorizes viewing information, not making changes to personal information or enrolling in a plan. The ADHI must be completed by the member who is approving the release of their information.
Some examples of what can be released once the form is on file:
• Insurance enrollment information and an explanation of benefits
•Medical records
• HSA or other account balances
• ID cards
• Doctor/network provider status
• Claims information
• Address confirmation
The ADHI is authorized for one year from the date it is signed. Even if the member states that they authorize the form forever, it expires after one year, regardless. It is the member’s responsibility to provide an updated form each year—Blue Cross does not automatically send out new forms or send reminders when a form is about to expire. By having your relative, friend, or patient fi ll out and sign this form, you are on your way to continuing to provide informed and compassionate care.