Covered entities (CEs) can use and disclose protected health information (PHI) without permission in some circumstances. Which of the following is one example?

Covered entities (CEs) are permitted to use and disclose protected health information (PHI) without permission in certain situations, primarily centered around the provision of healthcare and necessary treatment. One significant example is when other providers require access to PHI to deliver treatment to a patient. This is essential for ensuring that the healthcare delivery process is effective and coordinated, as it allows different healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about a patient's care based on comprehensive information.

When treatment is involved, the sharing of information supports better health outcomes by facilitating continuity of care. By allowing healthcare providers to access necessary information, they can avoid redundancies, prevent medical errors, and ensure that they develop a proper understanding of a patient's medical history, which is critical for appropriate treatment decisions. In this context, the flow of PHI is seen as integral to the health care system, balancing the need for patient privacy with the need for effective treatment.

In contrast, options related to marketing health services and insurance auditing typically require patient consent or have more stringent regulations around the use of PHI for those specific purposes. Communicating with family members might also require patient permission unless the circumstances involve immediate health and safety issues.