What guidelines restrict the amount of health information used or disclosed?

The correct answer is the "minimum necessary" guideline. This principle, established under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), dictates that covered entities must make reasonable efforts to limit the use and disclosure of protected health information (PHI) to the minimum amount necessary to achieve the intended purpose.

This means that when sharing health information, whether with other healthcare providers, insurers, or even within an organization, only the essential information that is necessary for the task at hand should be disclosed. This guideline helps to protect patient privacy and ensures that sensitive information is not shared more widely than necessary.

The minimum necessary standard is crucial in maintaining the confidentiality of health information and in safeguarding against potential breaches or misuse of sensitive patient data. By adhering to this principle, healthcare organizations can demonstrate their commitment to compliance with HIPAA regulations and the ethical management of patient information.