Under what condition can an actor charge fees for accessing eHI?

Charging fees for accessing electronic health information (eHI) is allowed primarily when it is necessary to ensure a reasonable profit margin. This condition reflects the need for organizations to maintain financial viability while providing access to important health information. It recognizes that, despite the critical nature of eHI, some level of cost recovery is legitimate and can help cover the expenses associated with managing and providing access to this information.

The concept of a "reasonable profit margin" emphasizes that while the primary goal of sharing eHI is to improve patient care and outcomes, organizations also need to sustain their operations. This balance ensures that the entities providing the data can continue to function effectively and invest in the infrastructure and technology necessary for ongoing access to eHI.

In contrast, the other conditions do not directly align with the principles governing fee structures for eHI access. Non-profit status does not inherently permit charging fees, as non-profits can have varied financial practices. Promoting efficiency is important, but it doesn't justify charging fees without a corresponding financial rationale, and merely providing services within legal boundaries does not, by itself, validate the imposition of fees.