What is one reason PHI might be disclosed without authorization?

Disclosing Protected Health Information (PHI) without authorization is permissible under certain circumstances, particularly when there is a concern for the safety of an individual or others. In the context of preventing harm, healthcare providers and organizations may share PHI if it's necessary to protect someone from imminent danger or threats. This adheres to the principle of balancing patient confidentiality with the potential need for intervention.

For instance, if a healthcare provider learns that a patient poses a serious risk to themselves or others, they may disclose relevant information to appropriate parties, such as law enforcement or mental health professionals, to mitigate that risk. This type of disclosure aims to prevent harm and is recognized as a critical exception to the general rule requiring patient consent.

While sharing information with family, processing insurance claims, and fulfilling administrative requirements are essential functions within healthcare, they typically require patient authorization unless other protective measures or exceptions apply. The focus on preventing harm underscores the ethical obligation to prioritize safety, even in situations where privacy concerns are also significant.