Image release form: what it is and what it is for in HOF
The image release form is the document in which the patient expressly authorizes the recording and use of their photographs and videos for defined purposes. In orofacial harmonization, it covers everything from the clinical photos in the patient record to possible use in teaching, articles or marketing, when the professional council's rules allow it.
A facial image is personal data, and a clinical photo is health-related data. That is why the topic is directly tied to the LGPD (Brazil's personal data protection law).
What does the form usually cover?
- Which images: photos, videos, simulations generated from them.
- For which purposes, listed separately: patient record, teaching, scientific publication, marketing.
- Where and for how long the images may be used.
- Whether the face will be shown in full or with anonymization techniques.
- That the authorization is optional and can be revoked.
- That the patient is not required to authorize marketing use in order to be treated.
Why keep it separate from the procedure consent?
Informed consent deals with the procedure. The image authorization deals with something else, and mixing the two can taint the patient's free will, since they feel obliged to accept everything together. Keeping separate documents or fields, with tick-box options, makes the choice freer.
When there is an illustrative simulation, it is worth covering the use of that image too and making clear that it is not a promise of results. The advertising rules are covered in what you may advertise.
This content is informational and does not replace legal advice.
Also called: image use authorization, image rights assignment form.
Frequently asked questions
Can the patient withdraw the image authorization later?
Generally, yes. The authorization can be revoked, and from then on no new publications should be made. How far the revocation reaches what has already been published should be assessed case by case.