What are the two mandatory disclosures of Protected Health Information (PHI)?

The correct choice pertains to the two mandatory disclosures of Protected Health Information (PHI) under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).

Disclosing PHI to the patient ensures that individuals have access to their own health information, which is a fundamental right under HIPAA. This promotes transparency and allows patients to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare.

The requirement to disclose PHI to the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is crucial for compliance and oversight purposes. This disclosure is necessary when there are investigations or audits to ensure healthcare entities adhere to HIPAA regulations. Such investigations might be initiated due to breaches or potential misconduct involving personal health data.

This emphasis on transparency and compliance reinforces the importance of safeguarding patient privacy while also allowing for governmental oversight to protect individuals from violations. The other options do not represent requirements mandated by HIPAA, as they involve disclosures that are not legally necessary or could violate patient confidentiality.