Certified Healthcare Technology Specialist (CHTS) Process Workflow & Information Management Redesign Practice Exam

What legislative act is closely associated with patient safety and privacy?

1. HITECH

2. ARRA

3. EMR

4. HIPAA

The correct answer is: HIPAA

The correct answer is closely associated with comprehensive regulations designed to protect patient information and ensure patient safety, specifically in the context of health information privacy. This legislative act, enacted in 1996, established national standards for the protection of health information and set forth guidelines regarding the use and disclosure of individuals' medical records and personal health information. It emphasizes the importance of safeguarding patient data, thereby enhancing overall patient safety and trust in healthcare systems. By ensuring that health information is shared responsibly, patients can have greater confidence that their personal information is protected, which is crucial in fostering the doctor-patient relationship. While other options like HITECH and ARRA intersect with aspects of technology in healthcare, they build upon components of the original act rather than focus solely on privacy and safety. HITECH, for instance, was specifically designed to promote the adoption and meaningful use of health information technology and includes provisions that strengthen the original privacy and security protections established under HIPAA.