During a patient check-in, which document is crucial for verifying identity?

Verifying a patient’s identity is critical to ensure that the correct medical services are provided and to maintain patient safety. A driver’s license serves as a government-issued form of identification that includes the individual's name, photograph, and often their date of birth, making it an essential document for verifying identity during check-in.

While an insurance card can provide important information regarding a patient's coverage, it may not always include a photo and can be held by someone other than the patient. Similarly, a referral note primarily serves to direct the patient to a specific specialist or service and does not offer personal identification details. An appointment confirmation typically contains scheduling details but lacks verified identity components.

Thus, the driver’s license is the most reliable document for confirming that the person checking in matches the medical records and appointments, reinforcing patient confidentiality and accurate healthcare delivery.