If obtaining consent is not feasible, to whom can PHI be disclosed?

In situations where obtaining consent is not feasible, the disclosure of Personal Health Information (PHI) is permitted primarily to other healthcare practitioners involved in the care of the client. This practice supports the continuity of care, ensuring that essential health information can be shared among those providing treatment, even without explicit consent at that moment. The rationale behind this is rooted in the need to protect patient safety and well-being, as healthcare practitioners often require access to relevant medical information to provide appropriate care.

The other options involve disclosures that are generally not allowed without consent. Marketing agencies typically do not have a valid reason to access an individual's PHI, as this does not relate to direct patient care. Family members can only receive information if the client has provided consent or if there are extenuating circumstances that justify such disclosure. Social media platforms are not considered appropriate channels for sharing PHI, as they do not relate directly to healthcare and would breach confidentiality standards.