Maine Request for Accounting of Disclosures of Protected Health Information is a legal document that allows individuals to obtain a detailed report or log of their protected health information (PHI) disclosures. PHI refers to any information related to an individual's health, medical conditions, treatment, or payment for healthcare services. In Maine, individuals have the right to request an accounting of the disclosures of their PHI under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Maine Health Security Act. This process brings transparency and ensures that healthcare providers, health plans, and other entities handling PHI are accountable for their disclosures. The Maine Request for Accounting of Disclosures of Protected Health Information aims to provide full disclosure and understanding of how an individual's PHI has been shared, both within and outside the healthcare system. This information is essential for patients to maintain control over their healthcare information, identify potential privacy breaches, and assert their rights to the privacy of their medical records. There are three types of Maine Request for Accounting of Disclosures of Protected Health Information: 1. Access-Based Accounting: This type of request provides an individual with a detailed record of who accessed their PHI, including healthcare professionals, administrative staff, or any other authorized personnel. It includes the date, time, purpose, and recipient of each disclosure. Access-based accounting helps patients verify that their healthcare information is being accessed appropriately and in accordance with their consent. 2. Disclosure-Based Accounting: With this request, individuals can obtain a log of all disclosures of their PHI to third parties outside the healthcare system. These disclosures may include sharing information with insurance companies, researchers, public health agencies, or any other non-treatment entities. Disclosure-based accounting allows patients to monitor their PHI's whereabouts and ensure compliance with privacy regulations. 3. Combined Accounting: This type of request provides a comprehensive report that combines both access-based and disclosure-based accounting. It includes all instances where PHI has been accessed or disclosed, regardless of the recipient or purpose. A combined accounting offers individuals a complete overview of who has had access to their health information and how it has been shared throughout its lifecycle. By using the Maine Request for Accounting of Disclosures of Protected Health Information, individuals can actively participate in their healthcare decision-making and protect their privacy rights. It enables them to track the flow of their PHI and identify any irregularities or possible breaches, empowering them to take appropriate actions to safeguard their sensitive health information.