Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) Practice Exam

Which of the following statements is TRUE about the safeguards of PHI?

1. They only apply to written documents

2. They ensure PHI is protected in all formats

3. They are optional for electronic health records

4. They do not include security measures

The correct answer is: They ensure PHI is protected in all formats

The statement indicating that safeguards ensure PHI (Protected Health Information) is protected in all formats is accurate. The safeguards mandated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) extend beyond just written documents to include oral and electronic formats as well. This comprehensive approach reflects the understanding that PHI can exist in various forms, including verbal communications, paper records, and digital storage or transmission. HIPAA requires covered entities to implement appropriate administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of PHI, regardless of its form. Therefore, the focus on all formats ensures a holistic and robust protection framework for health information, aligning with the overarching goals of HIPAA to protect patient privacy and rights.