Under HIPAA, are patients allowed to view their Protected Health Information (PHI)?

The correct understanding regarding patient access to their Protected Health Information (PHI) under HIPAA is that patients generally have the right to access their PHI at any time. This right is a key component of the privacy protections offered by HIPAA, designed to empower individuals by allowing them to review and obtain copies of their health information.

Therefore, the assertion that patients are not allowed to view their PHI does not align with HIPAA regulations. Patients can request access to their health records, and healthcare providers are required to furnish this information within a specified time frame, barring certain exceptions. These exceptions might include situations where access to the information could endanger the safety of the patient or others, but these are clearly defined limitations rather than a blanket prohibition.

The options suggesting limited access—based on authorization or only in emergencies—also do not reflect the general access rights afforded to patients under HIPAA. Instead, individuals are encouraged to stay informed about their health records and manage their care effectively through adequate access to their PHI.