AHIMA AHIMA Release of Information 2

Question 1

Which state law generally takes precedence when it provides greater privacy protections than HIPAA?

Accepted Answer

State law prevails when it is more stringent (more protective of patient privacy) than HIPAA

Answer

HIPAA establishes a federal floor of privacy protections, but states may enact stricter laws; in such cases, the more stringent state law applies.

Question 2

What additional federal protections apply to substance use disorder treatment records beyond standard HIPAA requirements?

Accepted Answer

42 CFR Part 2 (Confidentiality of Substance Use Disorder Patient Records)

Answer

42 CFR Part 2 imposes stricter confidentiality requirements on records of patients treated for substance use disorders at federally assisted programs, requiring specific patient consent for most disclosures.

Question 3

Under HIPAA, what is a 'business associate'?

Accepted Answer

A person or entity that performs functions or activities on behalf of a covered entity involving PHI

Answer

A business associate is a person or organization that creates, receives, maintains, or transmits PHI on behalf of a covered entity to perform a function or service.

Question 4

What is the correct process when a patient revokes a previously signed HIPAA authorization?

Accepted Answer

Disclosures that already occurred in reliance on the authorization are not affected, but future disclosures must stop

Answer

A patient may revoke a HIPAA authorization in writing at any time, but the revocation does not affect disclosures already made in reliance on the authorization.

Question 5

Which of the following is an example of a permitted disclosure of PHI without patient authorization under HIPAA's public interest exceptions?

Accepted Answer

Reporting communicable diseases to a state or local public health authority

Answer

HIPAA permits disclosure of PHI without authorization to public health authorities authorized by law to collect information for preventing or controlling disease or injury.

(AHIMA) American Health Information Management Association Practice Test

(AHIMA) American Health Information Management Association Practice Test

AHIMA AHIMA Release of Information 2