Under what circumstance can a covered entity disclose PHI without obtaining patient consent?

Under what circumstance can a covered entity disclose PHI without obtaining patient consent?

• A. When conducting health assessments
• B. When providing in cases of suspected abuse
• C. When referred by another healthcare provider
• D. When requested by legal authorities

Answer: (B)

Disclosing protected health information (PHI) without obtaining patient consent is permissible under specific circumstances, one of which includes cases of suspected abuse. In situations where there is a reasonable belief that a patient may be a victim of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence, healthcare providers are obligated to report this information to the appropriate authorities, such as law enforcement or social services. This obligation exists not only to ensure the safety of the patient but also to comply with mandatory reporting laws that are in place to protect vulnerable populations. The disclosure in these instances does not require patient consent because the priority shifts to the protection of potential victims and the reporting of unlawful actions. This exception is built into the regulations of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which aims to support patient safety while also allowing for certain disclosures to safeguard the welfare of individuals. In contrast, other scenarios such as conducting health assessments, receiving referrals, or responding to requests from legal authorities typically require patient consent or specific legal authorization to disclose PHI unless other specific legal exceptions apply. This creates a framework that balances patient privacy with necessary legal and ethical obligations.

Disclosing protected health information (PHI) without obtaining patient consent is permissible under specific circumstances, one of which includes cases of suspected abuse. In situations where there is a reasonable belief that a patient may be a victim of abuse, neglect, or domestic violence, healthcare providers are obligated to report this information to the appropriate authorities, such as law enforcement or social services. This obligation exists not only to ensure the safety of the patient but also to comply with mandatory reporting laws that are in place to protect vulnerable populations.

The disclosure in these instances does not require patient consent because the priority shifts to the protection of potential victims and the reporting of unlawful actions. This exception is built into the regulations of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which aims to support patient safety while also allowing for certain disclosures to safeguard the welfare of individuals.

In contrast, other scenarios such as conducting health assessments, receiving referrals, or responding to requests from legal authorities typically require patient consent or specific legal authorization to disclose PHI unless other specific legal exceptions apply. This creates a framework that balances patient privacy with necessary legal and ethical obligations.