What type of policies outline the rules and expected actions to protect PHI?

Security policies are designed to outline the rules and expected actions necessary to protect Personal Health Information (PHI). These policies provide a comprehensive framework that defines how sensitive information should be managed, accessed, and protected within healthcare organizations. They typically cover various aspects, including data encryption, user access controls, and incident response measures, ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations, such as the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) in Canada.

By establishing clear guidelines within security policies, organizations can better safeguard PHI against unauthorized access, breaches, and mishandling, thus maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of patient information. This proactive approach is essential in fostering trust with patients and ensuring that healthcare providers adhere to best practices in information management.