What must healthcare providers do if they receive a request for PHI from a family member?

Healthcare providers are obligated to protect patients' privacy and ensure that any disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI) complies with HIPAA regulations. When a family member requests PHI, the healthcare provider must have proper authorization from the patient to release this information. This requirement is in place to safeguard the patient's confidentiality and give them control over who accesses their medical information.

In certain situations, there may be exceptions where information can be shared without explicit consent, such as in emergencies or if the family member is involved in the patient’s care. However, these situations are clearly defined by HIPAA, and generally, explicit authorization from the patient is necessary to disclose any medical records or personal health information to family members or others.

Understanding this principle emphasizes the importance of confidentiality and the rights of patients under HIPAA, which is central to uphold the trust between healthcare providers and patients.