What type of plan must Joint Commission-accredited facilities maintain to protect health information from disasters?

Joint Commission-accredited facilities are required to maintain a disaster plan specifically designed to protect health information in the event of disasters, whether natural or man-made. This plan outlines procedures to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of patient data during emergencies, thus safeguarding sensitive health information.

The disaster plan should address how to manage and recover critical systems, secure data, and ensure continued access to important patient information, enabling healthcare providers to deliver uninterrupted care even during crises. By preparing for potential disasters, these facilities comply with accreditation standards and demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the privacy and security of health information under challenging circumstances.

Other options like patient care, case management, and budget do not specifically focus on the protocols and measures necessary for maintaining the security of health information in the face of disasters. While they may be crucial in their own right within an organization, they do not fulfill the specific requirements set forth by the Joint Commission regarding disaster preparedness for health information.