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

• A. Privacy Act
• B. Data Privacy Rule
• C. HIPAA
• D. Confidentiality Statute

Answer: (C)

The main idea being tested is determining which rule sets the standard for protecting patient health information in the U.S. When health information is involved, HIPAA provides the national framework. It creates rules about how PHI can be used and disclosed (Privacy Rule) and the safeguards required to protect electronic PHI (Security Rule). It also includes breach notification requirements and patient rights to access, amend, or restrict certain disclosures. HIPAA applies to covered entities such as healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses, as well as their business associates.

Other options don’t fit the scope. The Privacy Act governs federal agency records, not the broader healthcare system. The term Data Privacy Rule isn’t a recognized federal regulation for health information. A Confidentiality Statute isn’t a specific, widely used regulatory framework for healthcare privacy. So HIPAA is the correct choice because it directly governs privacy and security of patient health information across the U.S. healthcare landscape.