1.
What does “HIPAA” stand for?
Correct Answer
A. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
Explanation
HIPAA stands for Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This act was enacted in 1996 and is a federal law in the United States that provides data privacy and security provisions for safeguarding medical information. It sets standards for the electronic exchange, privacy, and security of health information. The act also includes provisions to protect the privacy of individuals' health information and ensures the portability of health insurance coverage for individuals when they change or lose their jobs.
2.
What is PHI (Protected Health Information)?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
PHI (Protected Health Information) refers to any information that is related to a patient's past or present mental or physical condition, as well as any information that can be used to identify the patient. This includes covered transactions that are performed electronically, such as eligibility, enrollment, health care claims, payment, and more. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above" as all the options listed are examples of PHI.
3.
What does HIPAA do?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above.
Explanation
HIPAA, or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, serves multiple purposes. It protects the privacy and security of a patient's health information, ensuring that this sensitive data is not improperly accessed or disclosed. It also provides for the electronic and physical security of health information, establishing safeguards to prevent unauthorized access or breaches. Additionally, HIPAA aims to prevent healthcare fraud and abuse, implementing measures to detect and deter fraudulent activities. Therefore, the correct answer is "All of the above."
4.
Under the right to Access, healthcare employees have the right to access their own medical records directly, utilizing job-related access such as hospital information and medical records.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Healthcare employees do not have the right to access their own medical records directly using job-related access. While they may have access to certain patient information as part of their job, their own medical records are typically accessed through the same process as any other patient, such as submitting a request and following the appropriate privacy and security protocols. Therefore, the correct answer is False.
5.
When can you use or disclose PHI?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
You can use or disclose PHI for the treatment of a patient if it is part of your job. You can also use or disclose PHI for obtaining payment for services if it is part of your job. Additionally, you can use or disclose PHI when the patient has authorized, in writing, its release. Therefore, all of the above options are correct.
6.
How does a patient learn about privacy under HIPAA?
Correct Answer
C. At his first visit he is given the Provider’s Notice of Privacy Practices, and signs an acknowledgement that he has received a copy of it.
7.
Who at Mi Doctor has to follow HIPAA Law?
Correct Answer
D. A) b) and c)
Explanation
The correct answer is a) b) and c). All Mi Doctor employees, physicians, clinicians, and employees who provide management, administrative, financial, legal, or operational support to the Mi Doctor Medical Group, if they use or disclose individually identifiable Health Information, have to follow HIPAA Law. This means that anyone working at Mi Doctor, regardless of their role, is required to comply with the regulations set forth by HIPAA to protect patient privacy and confidentiality.
8.
How do you send a patient’s Protected Health Information?
Correct Answer
A. With all precautions in place for the security of the records to include encrypted messages
Explanation
The correct answer is to send a patient's Protected Health Information with all precautions in place for the security of the records, including encrypted messages. This means that when sending PHI, it is crucial to take necessary steps to ensure the information is protected and secure. Encrypting messages adds an extra layer of security, making it more difficult for unauthorized individuals to access and read the information. This is important to maintain patient confidentiality and comply with HIPAA regulations.
9.
What if you know that a patient’s PHI has been leaked to an unauthorized party?
Correct Answer
C. Report it to Your Privacy Officer
Explanation
If a patient's PHI (Protected Health Information) has been leaked to an unauthorized party, the appropriate action would be to report it to the Privacy Officer. The Privacy Officer is responsible for managing and ensuring the privacy and security of patient information within an organization. They are trained to handle such incidents and can take the necessary steps to investigate and mitigate the breach, as well as notify the patient and relevant authorities if required. Reporting it to the Privacy Officer ensures that the incident is handled in accordance with the organization's privacy policies and legal obligations.
10.
How do I protect our patients’ PHI from unauthorized individuals?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above.
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above." This is because all of the mentioned actions - logging off computer terminals, using password-protected screen-savers, not sharing computer log-on and password, and positioning printers and computer terminals to prevent unauthorized access - are necessary to protect patients' PHI from unauthorized individuals.
11.
A co-worker is called away for a short errand and leaves the clinic PC logged onto the confidential information system. You need to look up information using the same computer. What should you do?
Correct Answer
E. A) and/or d)
12.
Your sister sends you an email at work with a screen saver she says you would love. What should you do?
Correct Answer
D. Delete the message.
Explanation
It is important to exercise caution when receiving emails with attachments, especially from unknown sources. Even if the email is from a trusted source like your sister, it is still recommended to delete the message as it could potentially contain malware or viruses that could harm your computer or compromise your personal information. It is always better to err on the side of caution and avoid downloading attachments from unknown or unverified sources.
13.
Which workstation security safeguards are YOU responsible for using and/or protecting?
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
The correct answer is "All of the above." As a user, you are responsible for using and protecting various workstation security safeguards. This includes using a user ID and password to access the workstation, following proper log-off procedures to ensure that your session is securely ended, and taking measures to lock up the office or work area, such as closing doors and windows and securing laptops. By implementing all of these security measures, you can help protect the confidentiality and integrity of the workstation and its data.
14.
Your supervisor, physician or co-worker is very busy and asks you to log into the clinical information system, using his/her User-ID and password, to retrieve some patient reports. What should you do?
Correct Answer
C. Decline the request, and refer to the HIPAA Security/Privacy policies
Explanation
Logging into the clinical information system using someone else's User-ID and password is a violation of HIPAA security and privacy policies. It is important to protect patient information and only access it with proper authorization. Declining the request and referring to the HIPAA policies ensures that patient confidentiality is maintained and that proper protocols are followed.
15.
You are personally responsible for giving a patients results in a very crowded busy waiting room. You are completely compliant with the HIPAA security rules to allow the patient to view your computer instead of privately talking to the patient.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Allowing a patient to view their results in a crowded waiting room goes against HIPAA security rules. HIPAA regulations require healthcare providers to protect patient privacy and ensure that patient information is kept confidential. Allowing others in the waiting room to see the patient's results would be a breach of confidentiality and a violation of HIPAA rules. Therefore, the statement is false.
16.
What is the purpose of Technical security safeguards?
Correct Answer
D. To protect data and control access to it
Explanation
The purpose of technical security safeguards is to protect data and control access to it. This means implementing measures such as encryption, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls to prevent unauthorized access, theft, or alteration of data. These safeguards are essential for maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information.
17.
Which of the following is a Technical Security?
Correct Answer
A. Passwords
Explanation
Passwords are considered a technical security measure because they are a form of authentication used to protect digital systems and data. By requiring users to enter a password, access to sensitive information can be restricted to authorized individuals only. Passwords can be encrypted and stored securely, and various techniques such as password complexity requirements and regular password changes can be implemented to enhance security.
18.
Penalties for non-compliance can be which of the following types?
Correct Answer
D. Civil and Criminal
Explanation
Penalties for non-compliance can be categorized into civil and criminal types. Civil penalties are imposed for violations that are not considered criminal offenses, such as regulatory or administrative violations. These penalties are typically monetary fines or sanctions. On the other hand, criminal penalties are imposed for more serious violations that are considered criminal offenses, such as fraud or theft. These penalties can include imprisonment, fines, or both. Therefore, non-compliance can result in both civil and criminal penalties depending on the nature and severity of the violation.
19.
Which of the following statements is accurate regarding the "Minimum Necessary" rule in the HIPAA regulations?
Correct Answer
A. Covered entities and business associates are required to limit the use or disclosure of pHI to the minimum necessary to accomplish the intended or specified purpose.
Explanation
The "Minimum Necessary" rule in the HIPAA regulations states that covered entities and business associates must limit the use or disclosure of PHI (Protected Health Information) to the minimum necessary to achieve the intended or specified purpose. This means that only the minimum amount of PHI required to carry out a particular task or function should be accessed or shared. The rule applies to both covered entities and business associates, and it helps to protect the privacy and security of individuals' health information.
20.
Which standard is for controlling and safeguarding of PHI in all forms?
Correct Answer
D. Privacy Standards
Explanation
Privacy Standards refers to the set of rules and regulations that are implemented to control and safeguard Protected Health Information (PHI) in all forms. These standards ensure that the privacy of individuals' health information is protected and that it is not accessed or disclosed without proper authorization. Privacy Standards play a crucial role in maintaining the confidentiality and security of PHI, and they are designed to comply with legal requirements such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in the United States.
21.
Which of the following are examples of health care plans?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
All of the options listed are examples of health care plans. An HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) is a type of health care plan that requires members to choose a primary care physician and obtain referrals for specialists. The Medicaid program is a government-funded health care plan that provides coverage for low-income individuals and families. Employer group health plans are health care plans offered by employers to their employees as part of their benefits package. Therefore, all three options are valid examples of health care plans.
22.
What is a key to success for HIPAA compliance?
Correct Answer
B. Education
Explanation
Education is a key to success for HIPAA compliance because it ensures that employees and staff members are aware of the regulations and guidelines set forth by HIPAA. By providing education and training, individuals are equipped with the knowledge and understanding necessary to handle protected health information (PHI) appropriately, maintain confidentiality, and adhere to privacy and security requirements. Education also helps in promoting a culture of compliance within the organization, reducing the risk of breaches or non-compliance.
23.
When should you promote HIPAA awareness?
Correct Answer
C. The first step in the compliance process
Explanation
The correct answer is "The first step in the compliance process." Promoting HIPAA awareness should be done at the beginning of the compliance process to ensure that all employees are educated about the regulations and understand their responsibilities. This helps to establish a culture of compliance and sets the foundation for the development and implementation of policies and procedures. It also helps to identify any potential risks or gaps in compliance early on, allowing for timely mitigation measures to be put in place.
24.
Which of these entities is considered a covered entity?
Correct Answer
C. pHysician practices
Explanation
Physician practices are considered covered entities because they provide healthcare services and handle protected health information (PHI) as part of their operations. Covered entities are defined under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and are required to comply with its privacy and security regulations to protect patients' health information. Physician practices fall under this category as they deal directly with patients, maintain medical records, and transmit PHI electronically, making them responsible for safeguarding patient confidentiality and ensuring HIPAA compliance.
25.
The Security Rule’s requirements are organized into which of the following three categories:
Correct Answer
C. Administrative, pHysical, and Technical safeguards
Explanation
The Security Rule's requirements are organized into three categories: Administrative, Physical, and Technical safeguards. Administrative safeguards involve policies and procedures to manage the selection, development, implementation, and maintenance of security measures. Physical safeguards refer to physical measures to protect electronic information systems and related buildings and equipment from natural and environmental hazards and unauthorized intrusion. Technical safeguards include the technology and the policies and procedures for its use that protect electronic information and control access to it.
26.
Which of the following is NOT an example of physical security?
Correct Answer
D. Data encryption
Explanation
Data encryption is not an example of physical security because it is a method of protecting data by converting it into a code, rather than physically securing a physical space or object. Physical security measures involve tangible actions such as locking file cabinets, office doors, and media storage cases to prevent unauthorized access to physical assets. Data encryption, on the other hand, focuses on safeguarding data from unauthorized access or interception by converting it into an unreadable format using encryption algorithms.
27.
The Administrative Simplification section of HIPAA consists of standards for the following areas:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The Administrative Simplification section of HIPAA consists of standards for transactions, code sets, identifiers, privacy, and security. This means that it covers all of the mentioned areas, ensuring that healthcare organizations follow standardized processes for transactions, use standardized code sets and identifiers, maintain privacy of patient information, and implement security measures to protect sensitive data.
28.
Within HIPAA how does Security differ from Privacy?
Correct Answer
B. Security defines safeguards for epHI versus Privacy which defines safeguards for pHI
Explanation
Security and Privacy within HIPAA differ in terms of the information they protect. Security focuses on safeguarding Individually Identifiable Health Information (IIHI), while Privacy focuses on protecting Protected Health Information (PHI). IIHI refers to any health information that can be used to identify an individual, while PHI refers to any health information that is linked to an individual's past, present, or future physical or mental health condition. Therefore, Security safeguards electronic PHI (ePHI), while Privacy safeguards all types of PHI.
29.
What is the main purpose for standardized transactions and code sets under HIPAA?
Correct Answer
B. To provide a common standard for the transfer of healthcare information
Explanation
Standardized transactions and code sets under HIPAA are implemented to provide a common standard for the transfer of healthcare information. This ensures that all healthcare organizations and entities use the same format and codes when exchanging data, which promotes interoperability and seamless communication between different systems. By having a standardized approach, it becomes easier to share and understand healthcare information, leading to improved efficiency, accuracy, and better patient care.
30.
The purpose of Administrative Simplification is:
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
The purpose of Administrative Simplification is to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the national health care system, protect patient rights, and reduce fraud and abuse. This means that by simplifying administrative processes, the health care system can operate more smoothly and efficiently, ensuring that patients receive the care they need in a timely manner. Additionally, protecting patient rights is crucial in maintaining their privacy and ensuring that they have access to the necessary information and resources. Finally, reducing fraud and abuse helps to ensure that resources are used appropriately and that patients are not taken advantage of.
31.
As part of insurance reform individuals can?
Correct Answer
A. Transfer jobs and not be denied health insurance because of pre-existing conditions
Explanation
As part of insurance reform, individuals can transfer jobs without being denied health insurance because of pre-existing conditions. This means that even if they have a pre-existing medical condition, they will still be able to obtain health insurance coverage when they switch jobs. This reform aims to provide individuals with more flexibility and security in their employment choices, ensuring that they are not penalized or denied coverage based on their health history.
32.
Business Associate Contract must specify the following?
Correct Answer
D. The pHI to be disclosed and the uses that may be made of that information
Explanation
The Business Associate Contract must specify the PHI to be disclosed and the uses that may be made of that information. This is important to ensure that both the covered entity and the business associate are clear about the specific information that will be shared and how it will be used. It helps establish the boundaries and expectations regarding the handling and protection of PHI.
33.
Minimum Necessary Disclosure refers to disclosing only the minimum amount of PHI necessary to accomplish the intended purpose of the use or disclosure.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that Minimum Necessary Disclosure is a principle in healthcare privacy that states that only the minimum amount of Protected Health Information (PHI) should be disclosed to fulfill the intended purpose. This principle ensures that healthcare providers and organizations limit the exposure of sensitive patient information, thereby reducing the risk of unauthorized access or misuse of PHI. By following the principle of Minimum Necessary Disclosure, healthcare entities can maintain patient privacy and confidentiality while still providing necessary information for treatment, payment, or other healthcare operations.
34.
All of the following are parts of the HITECH updates EXCEPT?
Correct Answer
D. Ability to sell pHI with an individual's approval
Explanation
The HITECH updates include increased penalties and enforcement, expanded privacy rights for individuals, direct enforcement of business associates, breach notification of unsecured PHI, and the requirement of a business associate contract. However, the ability to sell PHI with an individual's approval is not a part of the HITECH updates.
35.
The Privacy and Security rules specified by HIPAA are reasonable and scalable to account for the nature of each organization‘s culture, size, and resources. Each organization will determine its own privacy policies and security practices within the context of the HIPAA requirements and its own capabilities and needs.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that the Privacy and Security rules specified by HIPAA are designed to be reasonable and scalable, meaning that they can be adapted to fit the unique culture, size, and resources of each organization. This allows organizations to determine their own privacy policies and security practices that align with both the HIPAA requirements and their own capabilities and needs. Therefore, it is true that each organization has the flexibility to establish their own privacy and security measures within the framework of HIPAA.
36.
Which of the following are NOT characteristics of an "authorization"?
Correct Answer
D. All of the above
Explanation
All of the options listed are NOT characteristics of an "authorization." An authorization does not condition future medical treatment on the individual's approval, as medical treatment should not be withheld based on an individual's authorization. Additionally, an authorization is not written in broad terms, but rather specifies the exact purposes for which it is being granted. Finally, an authorization is not needed for all purposes including treatment, payment, and operations.
37.
Unique identifiers are used for?
Correct Answer
A. Identifying Patients, Providers, Health Plans, and Employers
Explanation
Unique identifiers are used to distinguish and identify specific individuals or entities within a system or database. In this case, the correct answer suggests that these identifiers are used for identifying patients, providers, health plans, and employers. By assigning unique identifiers to each of these entities, it becomes easier to accurately track and manage their information, ensuring efficient communication and coordination within the healthcare system.
38.
What standard is for the identification of all providers, payers, employers, and patients?
Correct Answer
B. Unique Identifiers
Explanation
Unique Identifiers are the standard for the identification of all providers, payers, employers, and patients. These identifiers are assigned to each individual or organization involved in healthcare transactions and are used to ensure accurate and consistent identification across different systems and platforms. By using unique identifiers, healthcare entities can effectively communicate and exchange information, leading to improved coordination of care, streamlined billing processes, and enhanced patient safety.
39.
Covered entities are permitted to use or disclose PHI in which of the following ways?
Correct Answer
D. Both A and B
Explanation
Covered entities are permitted to use or disclose PHI (Protected Health Information) for treatment, payment, or health care operations without obtaining a patient's authorization. This is because these activities are necessary for providing and managing healthcare services. However, covered entities are also allowed to use or disclose PHI if they have obtained a valid authorization from the patient. This authorization gives them permission to use or disclose the patient's PHI for specific purposes that are not related to treatment, payment, or health care operations. Therefore, the correct answer is "Both A and B" as covered entities can use or disclose PHI pursuant to a valid authorization and for treatment, payment, or health care operations.
40.
The HIPAA Security Rule's broader objectives were designed to:
Correct Answer
E. All of the above
Explanation
The HIPAA Security Rule's broader objectives were designed to protect the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of health information. This means ensuring that the information is accurate, secure, and accessible to authorized individuals. It also aims to protect against unauthorized uses or disclosures, preventing any unauthorized access or sharing of health information. Additionally, the rule aims to protect against hazards such as floods, fire, etc., by implementing safeguards to ensure the safety and availability of health information. Lastly, it emphasizes the importance of ensuring that all members of the workforce and business associates comply with these safeguards, promoting a culture of compliance and accountability.
41.
An authorization is required for which of the following:
Correct Answer
C. Non-routine disclosures
Explanation
Non-routine disclosures require authorization. This means that any disclosure of personal information that is not part of the regular course of business, such as sharing sensitive information with third parties, requires the individual's explicit permission. This ensures that individuals have control over their personal information and that it is not shared without their consent.
42.
Which of these entities could be considered a business associate?
Correct Answer
C. Document and record storage company
Explanation
A business associate is a person or entity that provides certain services to a covered entity, such as a healthcare provider, and requires access to protected health information (PHI) in order to perform those services. While a billing service and a lawyer may be considered business associates, a document and record storage company also falls under this category. This is because they handle and store sensitive documents and records that may contain PHI, making them subject to the same privacy and security regulations as other business associates.
43.
The HIPAA Security Rule is a technology neutral, federally mandated “floor” of protection whose primary objective is to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of individually identifiable health information in electronic form when it is stored, maintained, or transmitted.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The given statement is true. The HIPAA Security Rule is a technology-neutral regulation that aims to safeguard individually identifiable health information in electronic form. It sets a minimum standard of protection to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of this information when it is stored, maintained, or transmitted. This rule is federally mandated and applies to covered entities such as healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses.
44.
Who enforces HIPAA?
Correct Answer
B. Department of Health and Human Services
Explanation
The Department of Health and Human Services enforces HIPAA. HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, which is a federal law that protects the privacy and security of individuals' health information. The Department of Health and Human Services is responsible for implementing and enforcing the regulations outlined in HIPAA to ensure that healthcare providers, health plans, and other covered entities comply with the law and safeguard patients' health information.
45.
De-Indentification refers to ensuring that all of the individually identifiable information is identified and included in any HIPAA standard transaction.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
De-identification actually refers to the process of removing or altering personally identifiable information from a dataset in order to protect the privacy of individuals. It is the opposite of ensuring that all individually identifiable information is identified and included in HIPAA standard transactions. Therefore, the correct answer is False.