Question

Which of the following statements is true in responding to a requests for individuals who wish to access their PHI

a. a cost-based fee may be charged for retrieval of the PHI
b. a cost-based fee may be charged for making a copy of the PHI
c. no files of any type may be charged
d. a minimal fee may be charged for retrieval and copying of PHI

Answer 1

A minimal fee may be charged for retrieval and copying of PHI, while a cost-based fee may be charged for making copies of the PHI.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct statement is option d. A minimal fee may be charged for retrieval and copying of PHI (Protected Health Information).

Under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), individuals have the right to access their own PHI. However, healthcare providers are allowed to charge a reasonable, cost-based fee for providing copies of the requested PHI, including the cost of labor, supplies, and postage. The fee must be reasonable and cannot exceed the cost of providing the copies.

It's important to note that option a is incorrect because a cost-based fee can only be charged for the retrieval and copying of PHI, not just the retrieval. Option b is incorrect because a fee can only be charged for making copies, not for access alone. Option c is incorrect because a minimal fee can be charged for retrieving and copying PHI.