Who controls the use and release of patients information?

The control of patient information use and release is primarily governed by laws and regulations, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States. Patients have rights over their own health information, allowing them to authorize its use and share it with healthcare providers or third parties. Healthcare providers, insurers, and organizations must ensure compliance with these regulations and protect patient privacy. Additionally, institutional policies may also dictate how patient information is handled within specific healthcare settings.