CHAA Study Guide 2026

Using two patient identifiers (such as name and date of birth) is a Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goal designed to prevent mix-ups that could lead to wrong-patient treatment or test results.

Collecting copayments at check-in is standard best practice and reduces the cost of back-end billing; a receipt documents the transaction for both parties.

HIPAA requires reasonable safeguards to protect PHI from incidental disclosure.

'-Scopy' refers to visual examination using an instrument, as in colonoscopy (examination of the colon) or bronchoscopy (examination of the airways). Patient access staff regularly process prior authorizations for these diagnostic procedures.

Patient identity verification is a multi-step process to confirm that the patient is who they claim to be. Methods include reviewing government-issued photo identification, comparing insurance card information, verbal verification of date of birth and address, and comparing information against existing records. Proper identity verification prevents medical identity theft, ensures accurate record matching, and supports patient safety.

A HIPAA risk analysis is a comprehensive assessment that identifies potential risks and vulnerabilities to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of ePHI. It is a required administrative safeguard and the foundation of a HIPAA security program. The risk analysis must be ongoing, not a one-time event, and must lead to a risk management plan addressing identified threats.