What is required before disclosing any health information that could be harmful to the patient?

Before disclosing any health information that could potentially harm the patient, obtaining patient authorization is essential. This requirement ensures that patients have control over their own health information and the right to make decisions about who can see or use that information. Authorization typically involves the patient signing a document that specifies what information can be disclosed, to whom it can be disclosed, and for what purpose, while also emphasizing the risks of disclosure.

Patient authorization is critical in maintaining trust in the patient-provider relationship and upholding patient autonomy. This principle is reinforced by regulations such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which mandates that patient consent must be obtained to ensure patient privacy and protection when sharing sensitive health information.

The other options may address different aspects of health information management but do not align specifically with the requirement regarding the potential harm that could arise from disclosing health information without patient authorization.