Which of the following is considered a security incident under HIPAA?

Unauthorized access to PHI, or Protected Health Information, is specifically considered a security incident under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). This type of incident refers to any access or use of PHI that is not permitted or that violates HIPAA regulations. Such unauthorized access can lead to significant risks, including exposure of sensitive patient data and potential harm to patient privacy and security. Under HIPAA guidelines, organizations are required to identify, report, and manage security incidents, making it critical to respond to unauthorized access promptly.

On the other hand, routine maintenance of electronic records, annual staff training on compliance, and patient requests for record audits do not fall under the category of security incidents. Routine maintenance is part of the normal operational processes of managing electronic health records, training is a preventive measure designed to uphold compliance, and patient requests for audits are a legal right granted to individuals under HIPAA, reflecting the interactive aspect of patient engagement and rights regarding their health information.