Which action is explicitly NOT allowed under HIPAA regulations?

Disclosing protected health information (PHI) without authorization for marketing purposes is explicitly not allowed under HIPAA regulations. HIPAA sets strict standards to protect the privacy and security of patients' personal health information. When it comes to marketing, any disclosure of PHI requires patient authorization unless it falls into certain specific exemptions outlined in the law.

For example, if a healthcare provider intends to use a patient's information to promote a product or service unrelated to the treatment of the patient, they must obtain the patient's explicit consent. This is to ensure that patients are in control of their personal information and how it is used, especially in contexts that could benefit the provider financially but may not be in the interests of the patient.

In contrast, sharing information for treatment, releasing information when appropriate without consent, and using information for operational purposes are generally allowed under HIPAA, provided they adhere to the relevant guidelines and ensure patient privacy.