Certified in Healthcare Privacy Compliance (CHPC) Practice Exam

The primary purpose of the HIPAA Privacy Rule is to protect the privacy of patient information. This rule establishes national standards for the protection of individuals' medical records and other personal health information. By ensuring that patients’ health information is kept confidential, the Privacy Rule empowers patients with greater control over their personal health information and establishes safeguards to prevent unauthorized access and disclosure.

The focus of the Privacy Rule is fundamentally on maintaining the confidentiality of health information. It outlines the rights of individuals regarding their protected health information (PHI), including the right to access their records and request corrections, thus fostering trust in the healthcare system.

In contrast to the other options, which focus on restrictions, exchanges, or operational aspects, this primary aim underscores the significance of safeguarding individual privacy in health care practices—a key component of maintaining the integrity of patient-provider relationships and upholding ethical standards in healthcare.