If a patient revokes authorization for release of information after it has already been disclosed, what position is the healthcare facility in?

When a patient revokes their authorization for the release of information, the healthcare facility must consider the implications of that revocation concerning privacy laws and regulations. Once information has been disclosed based on a previously granted authorization, the facility is generally protected in that the disclosure was made in good faith while the authorization was still valid.

However, if the patient has revoked authorization, any further disclosures of that information without the patient’s consent could potentially lead to a violation of HIPAA regulations, which are designed to protect patient privacy and maintain the confidentiality of their health information. Each violation can result in civil penalties, depending on the circumstances, and the facility must adhere to the mandates established by HIPAA regarding patient rights to control their health information.

Therefore, the answer is correct as it highlights that the facility did not maintain compliance concerning the security regulations when the authorization to disclose information was revoked. Maintaining patient privacy and security is a critical component of HIPAA regulations, and failing to act accordingly after an authorization is revoked means the facility is not abiding by these important laws.