Final answer:
The minimum necessary rule in healthcare means that records should only be sent when there is a valid reason or need, and providers should develop safeguards to prevent unauthorized access to patient information.
Step-by-step explanation:
The minimum necessary rule is based on sound on sound current practice that protected health information should not be used or disclosed when it is not necessary to satisfy a particular purpose or carry out a function. This means that practices should only send records when there is a valid reason or need, such as for treatment or payment, and should not share more information than is necessary for that purpose. Providers should also develop safeguards to prevent unauthorized access to protected health information to maintain patient privacy.