How should a nurse practitioner respond to an insurance company calling to verify patient appointments if a medical release is signed?

The nurse practitioner's response of providing the requested information is appropriate in this context because a signed medical release from the patient grants permission for sharing specific medical information, including appointment details, with third parties such as an insurance company. This release is a legal document that indicates the patient’s consent for the healthcare provider to disclose their personal health information, which is critical in facilitating processes related to insurance coverage and reimbursement.

When handling such requests, it’s essential to ensure that the information being shared is consistent with what the patient has authorized in the release. By complying with the patient's wishes, the nurse practitioner not only fulfills the legal requirements but also enhances patient autonomy and trust in the healthcare relationship. This approach facilitates smoother communication with insurance companies and helps streamline any necessary administrative processes related to patient care.

In contrast, requesting the patient to call back would unnecessarily delay the verification process, and providing only limited information could impede the necessary communication regarding the patient’s care or insurance matters. Informing the insurance company of privacy laws, while important, does not directly address the request when a signed release is already in place; hence, it could be seen as redundant in this scenario.