What documentation is required when records are provided in person?

The requirement for an affidavit when records are provided in person stems from the need to establish a formal record of the transaction and verify the identity of the requester. This is especially important in the context of optometry, where patient records contain sensitive health information.

An affidavit serves as a legal document that the requester signs, affirming that they have the right to access the records and that the information provided is accurate. This process helps protect both the patient’s confidentiality and the optometrist's practice from potential legal issues. It creates a tangible record of who accessed the information, reinforcing accountability and compliance with privacy laws.

The other options do not fulfill the legal requirements as comprehensively as an affidavit does. While verifying the identity of the requester is important, it alone does not provide the thorough documentation needed to protect both parties involved. Additionally, a witness statement may not be necessary or sufficient for this purpose, and the option that suggests no documentation is needed does not align with the standards of care and legal practices surrounding patient records in healthcare.