Which HIPAA Privacy Rule requirements apply when handling patient information?

• A. Safeguard PHI, obtain consent for disclosures when required, and limit information to minimum necessary.
• B. Only share with any staff.
• C. Release to marketing without consent.
• D. Share with family always.

Answer: (A)

Handling patient information under the HIPAA Privacy Rule focuses on protecting PHI, sharing only what is necessary, and obtaining proper authorization when required. You must put safeguards in place—administrative, physical, and technical measures—to prevent unauthorized access or disclosure of PHI. When using or disclosing PHI, apply the minimum necessary standard, meaning only the smallest amount of information needed to accomplish the purpose should be shared. In many cases, disclosures outside treatment, payment, or health care operations require the patient’s authorization, so obtaining consent or authorization is essential when the rule requires it. The other options suggest broad or unconditional sharing or marketing without consent, which would violate these protections and are not permitted.