What is the purpose of the Preventing Harm exception in information blocking?

The purpose of the Preventing Harm exception in information blocking is to prevent a reasonable risk of harm to a patient or another person. This exception recognizes that, in certain situations, there may be a legitimate concern that disclosing information could lead to negative consequences, such as emotional distress or physical harm. It allows healthcare providers to prioritize patient safety and well-being over the obligation to share information freely, thus ensuring that the potential risks are carefully considered before any information is released. This aligns with the ethical obligation of healthcare professionals to do no harm, reinforcing the importance of balancing access to information with the need to protect individuals from potential negative outcomes.