What does not qualify as marketing and therefore requires no authorization?

The correct choice is based on the distinction between marketing communications and other types of health-related communications. Information about health-related products and treatment communications does not qualify as marketing under HIPAA. This is because such communications are considered more informative and educational, focusing on the provision of patient care rather than promoting a specific product or service for the purpose of selling.

Under HIPAA, marketing requires authorization when it involves communications that encourage the purchase or use of a particular service or product. However, when the information is directly related to a patient’s treatment or involves health benefits or product information that is clinically relevant, no authorization is needed. This includes information that supports the patient’s overall health and well-being.

In contrast, promotional events, surveys about patient satisfaction, and advertising sales in health insurance typically fall under marketing or promotional activities and therefore do require patient authorization for disclosure, as they are meant to drive sales or engage customers in a purchasing decision.