Which of the following is true regarding an authorization for release of health information?

An authorization for release of health information must indeed be time-limited. This is crucial because it ensures that the permission granted by the patient to disclose their health information does not remain indefinitely in effect. By establishing a specific timeframe, it protects the patient's privacy and allows them to manage their health records more effectively. When a patient authorizes the release of their information, it should specify when that authorization begins and when it ends, thereby providing clarity and control over their personal health information.

In contrast, while it may be beneficial for an authorization to have a healthcare provider's signature, it is not a requirement for the validity of the authorization itself. Including a patient's social security number is not mandatory; in fact, it is often discouraged to avoid unnecessary exposure of sensitive personal data. Notarization is also not a general requirement for health information authorizations, as long as the authorization meets the other legal and regulatory criteria for validity.