NRCMA Medical Law and Ethics

Question 1

Which legal concept requires a patient to be informed of risks, benefits, and alternatives before agreeing to a procedure?

Accepted Answer

Informed consent

Answer

Informed consent requires the provider to disclose risks, benefits, and alternatives so the patient can make a knowledgeable decision.

Question 2

A medical assistant accidentally discloses a patient's HIV status to the patient's employer. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Breach of confidentiality

Answer

Releasing protected health information without patient authorization constitutes a breach of confidentiality.

Question 3

Under HIPAA, the minimum necessary standard means:

Accepted Answer

Only the minimum amount of PHI needed for the task should be used or disclosed

Answer

The minimum necessary standard limits PHI use and disclosure to the least amount needed to accomplish the intended purpose.

Question 4

Which act primarily governs the privacy and security of patient health information in the United States?

Accepted Answer

HIPAA

Answer

HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) sets national standards for protecting patients' protected health information.

Question 5

A physician-patient relationship may be legally terminated by the physician without liability if the physician:

Accepted Answer

Provides reasonable notice and time for the patient to find alternative care

Answer

Giving adequate notice and allowing time to secure alternative care protects the physician from a charge of abandonment.

(NRCMA) Nationally Registered Certified Medical Assistant Practice Test