What do Privacy Rule standards address?

The Privacy Rule standards primarily focus on how an individual's protected health information (PHI) may be used and accessed. This rule, which is part of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), establishes a framework for safeguarding sensitive patient information. It outlines the rights of individuals regarding their PHI and sets limits on the use and disclosure of that information without patient consent.

This regulation is critical for ensuring patient confidentiality and trust in the healthcare system. It protects patients by giving them rights such as the ability to access their own health records and request corrections to them. By ensuring that healthcare organizations adhere to these standards, the Privacy Rule helps maintain the integrity of health information while allowing necessary information sharing for treatment, payment, and healthcare operations under regulated circumstances.

In contrast, the other options pertain to different aspects of healthcare management and policy. While they are important concepts, they do not relate to the specific standards set forth in the Privacy Rule.