Under what condition can a family member be provided with protected health information (PHI)?

Providing protected health information (PHI) to a family member is permissible under specific circumstances. In particular, when a family member is involved in the patient’s care, they can be given access to relevant health information. This situation acknowledges that family members often play a critical role in supporting patients through their health journeys, including decision-making and facilitating care.

The rationale behind this provision is to ensure that family members who are actively participating in the patient’s care are equipped with the necessary information that enables them to assist effectively. This can include caregivers who might need to administer treatments, understand medication regimens, or provide emotional support based on insights into the patient's health status.

In contrast, other options do not establish a justified basis for disclosing PHI. The geographical location of a family, the professional status of a family member, or familial relationships alone do not grant access to PHI unless there is direct involvement in the patient's care. This confidentiality framework is crucial in protecting patient privacy while also recognizing the essential role that family members may play in healthcare delivery.