What must an insurer obtain from a doctor to finalize a claim?

To finalize a claim, an insurer must obtain the doctor's consent. This is crucial as it ensures that the insurer has the necessary authorization to proceed with the claims process, which often includes the release of medical records and verification of treatment provided. Consent is essential for complying with privacy laws, such as HIPAA, and for ensuring that the patient's rights are respected during the claims process.

While factors like a doctor's signature or diagnosis could be part of the paperwork or data reviewed in the claims process, the key element here is the formal agreement or consent from the doctor. Without this consent, the insurer would face legal and ethical barriers that could prevent the claim from moving forward. A financial report, while potentially relevant for certain claims, is not universally required to finalize a claim. Hence, obtaining the doctor's consent stands out as the most critical requirement in this context.