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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/hipaa-emergency-access-procedure

What access must be available during an emergency?

A procedure to access necessary ePHI in an emergency is required.

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  1. Procedures to access necessary ePHI in emergency ✔
  2. Block all access during emergency
  3. Delete ePHI in emergency

Why: The Security Rule requires an emergency access procedure so authorized staff can obtain ePHI needed during an emergency.

Huh, didn't know that: This helps patient care continue when normal permissions might not work.

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Why did the emergency access procedure carry a flashlight? To find necessary ePHI in the dark.
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References

Answer: Procedures to access necessary ePHI in emergency. The Security Rule requires an emergency access procedure so authorized staff can obtain ePHI needed during an emergency.

  1. 45 CFR 164.312(a)(2)(ii) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-45/subtitle-A/subchapter-C/part-164/subpart-C/section-164.312
    Emergency access procedure (Required). Establish (and implement as needed) procedures for obtaining necessary electronic protected health information during an emergency.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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