Clinical researchers have experienced barriers due to HIPPA. These researchers need to be aware of HIPAA's Privacy Rule because it establishes the conditions under which covered entities can use or disclose PHI. Which of the following statements about HIPPA covered entities is accurate?
A)Researchers are not covered entities unless they are also health care providers or employed by a covered entity or engage in any of the electronic transactions covered under HIPAA.
B)Researchers are always considered to be covered entities for transactions covered under HIPAA so long as they are conducting a valid study.
C)When difficulties arise with small sample size, covered entities are not allowed to disclose PHI to researchers to aid in study recruitment.
D)Covered entities do not include providers that transmit health information electronically for HIPAA transactions, health plans, and clearinghouses unless they are certified via a national examination.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to HIPAA's Privacy Rule, researchers are only considered covered entities if they are also health care providers or are employed by a covered entity or engage in any of the electronic transactions covered under HIPAA. Merely conducting a valid study does not automatically make a researcher a covered entity. Furthermore, covered entities are permitted to disclose PHI to researchers for recruitment purposes, subject to certain conditions and safeguards. Lastly, certification via a national examination is not a requirement for covered entities.

Clinical Researchers Have Experienced Barriers Due to HIPPA