Who is authorized to release medical records according to the guidelines provided?

The correct choice highlights that parents of minors have the authority to release medical records, but it comes with certain exceptions. This is based on the legal rights of parents to access their children's healthcare information. Generally, parents or guardians hold the right to make medical decisions for minors, which includes accessing their medical records. However, there are exceptions, particularly in situations where the minor has the capacity to make their own healthcare decisions or in cases where specific laws protect certain types of health information from being disclosed to parents.

For instance, laws regarding mental health treatment or reproductive health care services may allow minors to consent to treatment without parental involvement, which in turn can restrict the parents' access to those records. This nuanced understanding recognizes the balance between a minor's rights and parental authority in healthcare decisions, making it essential for healthcare providers to navigate these situations carefully.

The other options do not encompass the legal framework adequately: only the patient cannot release records without considering the role of guardians or parents, presenting a simplified view. While a legal guardian can release records, they may not always assume the same authority as a parent, especially if the child has specific rights under the law. Allowing all healthcare workers to release medical records would violate confidentiality and patient privacy protocols, ensuring that only