What must be obtained before an employer can access information about an employee's health, even if the employer is paying?

Before an employer can access information about an employee's health, it is essential to obtain employee authorization. This requirement is grounded in various privacy laws and regulations, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States, which protects the privacy of individuals' medical information.

Having written authorization ensures that the employee is fully aware of what specific information will be shared and for what purpose. This consent empowers the employee to maintain control over their personal health information, thus fostering a respectful and trusting relationship between the employer and the employee. The requirement for employee authorization ensures that health data is only accessed when the employee has explicitly given their permission, which lays a foundation for ethical standards in managing sensitive health information in the workplace.