In healthcare compliance, what is the main distinction between privacy and security?

The main distinction between privacy and security in healthcare compliance lies in their respective focus and objectives. Privacy is fundamentally about the rights of individuals to control their Personal Health Information (PHI), which includes how their data is collected, used, and disclosed. Hands-on methods that allow individuals to manage their own health information are critical aspects of privacy.

On the other hand, security refers to the measures and protocols that are implemented to protect that data from unauthorized access and breaches. Security encompasses the technical safeguards (like encryption), administrative protections (like access control policies), and physical protections (like locked cabinets) that ensure that the PHI remains confidential and intact.

The correct option clearly articulates this distinction by emphasizing that privacy is concerned with the individual's control over their health information, while security focuses on the protective measures put in place to prevent unauthorized access to that information. This differentiation is crucial for healthcare organizations as they navigate compliance with regulations such as HIPAA, which address both privacy rights and security obligations to ensure comprehensive protection of patient information.