Which of the following is an example of a permitted use of PHI?

The correct answer emphasizes the legitimate contexts in which Protected Health Information (PHI) can be shared without violating HIPAA regulations. Treatment, payment, and healthcare operations represent essential functions within the healthcare system where patient information needs to be accessed and used for the efficient delivery of care.

• "Treatment" refers to the provision, coordination, or management of healthcare and related services, including consultations between healthcare providers.
• "Payment" encompasses activities related to the billing and collection of payments for healthcare services, ensuring that providers are compensated for their work.
• "Healthcare operations" involve the administrative, financial, legal, and quality improvement activities necessary to run a healthcare entity.

These activities are integral to ensuring continuity of care, efficient healthcare delivery, and compliance with billing and insurance practices, making them crucial, permissible uses of PHI under HIPAA guidelines.