WorkSafeBC to accept electronic signatures from workers authorizing release of medical records
As of September 2021, WorkSafeBC will accept electronic signatures from injured workers to authorize the release of relevant medical records from their treatment providers.
Workers will have the option of entering a electronic signature on their Worker’s Authorization for Release of Personal Information form (Form 69W1) and then uploading the form directly to their claim file.
We don’t anticipate this new service option will generate additional work for treatment providers or medical office assistants. It’s designed to make it easier for workers to provide authorization to WorkSafeBC, reduce administrative and mailing delays, and enable our organization to request records from practitioners earlier. Treatment providers and WorkSafeBC will be able to expedite recommendations and referrals for appropriate treatment, helping restore injured workers to their life and work in a safe and timely manner.
B.C.’s Electronic Transactions Act allows for electronic signatures in place of hand written pen-to-paper signatures. WorkSafeBC will accept electronic signatures drawn on a touch-screen tablet or with a mouse.
Please share this information with any of your office staff who receive WorkSafeBC’s authorization forms for the release of information.
To learn more, refer to the Question & Answer: Electronic signatures resource from WorkSafeBC.