AHIMA AHIMA Release of Information

Question 1

What federal law primarily governs the release of protected health information (PHI) by covered entities in the US?

Accepted Answer

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Privacy Rule

Answer

The HIPAA Privacy Rule (45 CFR Parts 160 and 164) is the primary federal regulation governing disclosure of PHI by covered entities and business associates.

Question 2

What elements are required in a valid HIPAA authorization for release of PHI?

Accepted Answer

Description of information, purpose, recipient, expiration, patient signature with date, and right to revoke

Answer

A valid HIPAA authorization must include core elements such as a description of the PHI, the purpose of disclosure, the recipient, an expiration date/event, patient signature, and notice of the right to revoke.

Question 3

Under HIPAA, what is the 'minimum necessary' standard for release of information?

Accepted Answer

Limiting PHI disclosures to the least amount necessary to accomplish the intended purpose

Answer

The minimum necessary standard requires covered entities to make reasonable efforts to limit PHI disclosure to what is needed for the specific purpose of the request.

Question 4

What is the timeframe a covered entity has to provide a patient access to their own PHI under the HIPAA Access Rule?

Accepted Answer

30 calendar days, with one 30-day extension if needed

Answer

HIPAA requires covered entities to provide patient access to PHI within 30 calendar days of the request, with the option of a single 30-day extension with written notice.

Question 5

Which type of PHI disclosure does NOT require a patient's authorization under HIPAA?

Accepted Answer

Release for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations (TPO)

Answer

HIPAA permits covered entities to disclose PHI without patient authorization for treatment, payment, and healthcare operations purposes.

(AHIMA) American Health Information Management Association Practice Test

(AHIMA) American Health Information Management Association Practice Test

AHIMA AHIMA Release of Information