If you need to sign an authorization for FBTO in connection with a complaint about a Second Opinion or Specialist Advice (SAR), it's important to fully understand what the authorization entails. It often involves permission to access or request data relevant to your complaint. Below, we discuss the considerations you should consider before signing the authorization.
What is an authorization?
An authorization is written permission that authorizes FBTO to request or share data. This may include, for example:
- Medical information from specialists or healthcare providers.
- Relevant correspondence between healthcare providers.
- Documents that provide insight into the handling of your complaint.
Why does FBTO request authorization?
FBTO requests this authorization to thoroughly investigate your SAR complaint. Without your consent, the insurer cannot access medical or other confidential information necessary to:
- To assess the complaint on its merits.
- Contact the healthcare providers involved.
- To provide an appropriate solution or response.
What should you pay attention to before signing?
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Scope of the authorization
- Check whether the authorization is limited to the SAR complaint. General or overly broad authorizations can lead to unnecessary information being requested.
- Please request a specification of exactly what data FBTO requires.
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Temporariness of the consent
- Ensure that the authorization is valid only for the duration of the investigation. Request a clear indication that the authorization expires upon completion of the complaint procedure.
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GDPR and privacy protection
- FBTO is required to comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) . This means your data may only be used for the purpose for which you give consent. Ask how they store, process, and destroy your data afterward.
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Effectiveness
- Check whether signing the authorization is truly necessary. In some cases, there may be alternatives, such as providing the relevant information yourself.
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Understanding of the content
- Read the authorization carefully and ask for an explanation if anything is unclear.
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Legal advice
- If you have any doubts, you can consult a legal advisor, for example through a legal aid office or a specialized lawyer.
What are the risks of signing an authorization?
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Unwanted access to data
- An authorization that is too general may give FBTO the opportunity to request data that is not strictly necessary.
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Privacy breaches
- Sharing sensitive information always carries the risk of careless handling of your data.
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Limitation of objection
- Once FBTO has access to your data, it is difficult to object to the substantive assessment made on that basis.
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Rejection upon refusal
- If you refuse to sign, FBTO may indicate that they cannot fully investigate the complaint, which may lead to your complaint being rejected.
When is it wise to sign the authorization?
- Understandable and limited authorization : If the authorization is clearly defined and only relates to your complaint about SAR.
- Need for the investigation : If FBTO is unable to handle the complaint correctly without the authorization.
- Confidence in FBTO's procedures : If FBTO adheres to the privacy rules and the authorization is limited to what is necessary.
Conclusion
Signing an authorization for FBTO may be necessary to investigate your SAR complaint, but proceed with caution. Check that the authorization is specific, temporary, and targeted. If you have any doubts, consult a legal advisor to be sure of your rights and obligations.
