SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hipaa-confidential-communications

A patient asks the clinic to call a cell phone instead of the home phone. Can the clinic demand a reason?

No, a provider can't require an explanation.

Start playing free

  1. Yes, a reason is always required
  2. No, the provider can't require an explanation ✔
  3. Only if the patient is a minor

Why: Providers must accommodate reasonable requests to receive communications by other means or at other places. They may ask for the request in writing, but not why.

Huh, didn't know that: Health plans must accommodate these requests when the person says disclosure could endanger them.

The dad joke
Why did the phone wear glasses? To improve its call vision.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: No, the provider can't require an explanation. Providers must accommodate reasonable requests to receive communications by other means or at other places. They may ask for the request in writing, but not why.

  1. 45 CFR 164.522 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-C/part-164/subpart-E/section-164.522
    A covered health care provider may not require an explanation from the individual as to the basis for the request
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. 45 CFR 164.522 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-C/part-164/subpart-E/section-164.522
    A covered entity may require the individual to make a request for a confidential communication described in paragraph (b)(1) of this section in writing.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. 45 CFR 164.522 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-C/part-164/subpart-E/section-164.522
    if the individual clearly states that the disclosure of all or part of that information could endanger the individual
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Work SkillsHow long does a covered entity generally have to act on a patient's request for copies of their records?Work SkillsA patient asks for an electronic copy of records the clinic keeps electronically. What must the clinic do?Work SkillsWhat may a provider charge a patient for a copy of their own records?

That's stuff everyone should know.