A 36-Year-Old Man Has Been Hospitalized for the Past 3

A 36-year-old man has been hospitalized for the past 3 days for alcoholic hepatitis.  His condition is slowly improving and his prognosis is favorable.  However, this is his third absence from his job in the past 6 months due to health-related issues.  The patient notified his employer that he is presently hospitalized and was informed that he needs to provide the employer with proof of hospitalization or he could lose his job.  In accordance with hospital policy, the patient provides verbal consent for the physician to speak with his employer and disclose his health status.  The employer proceeds to contact the physician directly by phone, requesting an update on the patient and his likelihood of returning to work.  Which of the following is the most appropriate response by the physician to the employer?

A) "I can confirm that the patient is currently hospitalized, and I anticipate he will be able to return to work."
B) "I can disclose information to you only in the presence of the patient, so we need to schedule a meeting."
C) "I cannot discuss a patient's care with anyone without a written signed release of information."
D) "I cannot verify your identity and therefore cannot disclose any information about the patient."
E) "The diagnosis is alcoholic hepatitis and I expect him to recover and return to work in the coming days."

Correct Answer:

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