What must a covered entity do when a patient withdraws authorization for PHI disclosure?

When a patient withdraws authorization for the disclosure of their Protected Health Information (PHI), it is crucial for a covered entity to cease further disclosures based on that authorization. This means that any future use or sharing of the PHI that was previously permitted under that authorization must stop immediately. The principle underlying this requirement is the respect for patient autonomy and their right to control their own health information.

Once a patient has explicitly stated that they no longer give permission for certain information to be shared, the covered entity is obligated to adhere to this decision. However, it’s important to note that any disclosures that occurred prior to the withdrawal of authorization remain valid and cannot be reversed.

Other choices do not adhere to HIPAA regulations. Continuing to disclose information, immediately deleting patient records, or notifying the public would violate patient privacy rights and HIPAA guidelines, which are designed to protect the confidentiality and integrity of patient information. Thus, the correct course of action is to halt any further disclosures that were authorized by the patient.