(C)

1. (1) If the department chooses to receive information directly, the third party shall provide the information under all of the following circumstances:

   1. (a) In a medium, format, and manner prescribed in rules authorized by section 5160.43 of the Revised Code;
   2. (b) Free of charge;
   3. (c) Not later than the end of the thirtieth day after the department makes its request, unless a different time is agreed to by the director in writing.
2. (2) If the department chooses to receive access to information, the third party shall provide access by a method prescribed in rules authorized by section 5160.43 of the Revised Code. In facilitating access, the department may enter into a trading partner agreement with the third party to permit the exchange of information via "ASC X 12N 270/271 Health Care Eligibility Benefit Inquiry and Response" transactions.

(D) All of the following apply with respect to information provided by a third party to the department under this section:

1. (1) The information is confidential and not a public record under section 149.43 of the Revised Code.
2. (2) The release of information to the department is not to be considered a violation of any right of confidentiality or contract that the third party may have with covered persons including, but not limited to, contractees, beneficiaries, heirs, assignees, and subscribers.
3. (3) The third party is immune from any liability that it may otherwise incur through its release of information to the department. The department shall limit its use of information gained from third parties to purposes directly connected with the administration of the medicaid program and the child support program authorized by Title IV-D of the "Social Security Act," 42 U.S.C. 651 et seq.