American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) Certification Practice Exam

What term defines an individual's right to keep information private from disclosure?

1. Confidentiality

2. Privacy

3. Integrity

4. Security

The correct answer is: Privacy

The term that best defines an individual's right to keep information private from disclosure is privacy. Privacy refers to an individual's expectation and right to control their personal information and dictate how it is shared or disclosed. This principle underscores the importance of protecting personal space and information, allowing individuals to define boundaries concerning their data. Confidentiality, while closely related, specifically deals with the obligation of parties who have access to that private information (such as healthcare providers) to protect it from unauthorized access or disclosure. Integrity relates more to the accuracy and completeness of the information, ensuring that data is not altered or tampered with. Security encompasses various measures and protocols put in place to protect information from unauthorized access, breaches, or theft. In the context of health information management, privacy is a fundamental right that supports other concepts like confidentiality and security, but it primarily focuses on the individual’s autonomy and control over their personal information.