In what scenario can a covered entity disclose PHI for research without authorization?

The correct answer indicates that a covered entity can disclose protected health information (PHI) for research purposes without authorization when there is no identifiable information. This means that if the information has been de-identified according to the standards set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), it can be used in research without needing individual consent.

De-identification involves removing all information that could potentially identify a patient. This includes direct identifiers like names, social security numbers, and any other unique identifying numbers or characteristics. Once information is de-identified, it is no longer considered PHI and thus falls outside the protections of HIPAA, allowing researchers to utilize this data freely for study without violating confidentiality.

In the context of the other scenarios:

• Waiving privacy rights does not negate the need for authorization unless specific criteria are met under regulatory provisions.

• A subpoena does not automatically grant access to disclose PHI without authorization unless it has been reviewed by a legal team to ensure compliance with HIPAA's privacy rules.

• Special government exemptions must comply with certain requirements and often still necessitate authorization, so they are not a blanket solution for disclosing PHI without consent.

Thus, the unique protection set for de-identified data provides a clear pathway for