This is especially important when accommodations for a specific job or course are being considered. A cover letter with the release of information form is helpful in providing such contextual information. Additional information should be obtained via a consultation if recommendations do no have a clear rationale or connection to the data presented. If recommendations are asked for, it must be made clear to the student or employee when the release is signed that any recommendations given may or may not be deemed to be reasonable accomodations. Documentation obtained by DS cannot be released to parties other than the individual employee or student, and then only with written consent.
Releases of information are good for one calendar year after date of signature.
The DS registration agreement and confidentality statment forms do not need to be updated annually, but it is advisable to re-visit the forms on an annual basis with clients to make sure they are aware of what has been signed previously. They are not intended to identify specific accommodations. Keep in mind you need to focus on outcomes, not the means, by which a student achieves an outcome.