What is a key strategy for preventing theft of protected health information (PHI)?

Facility access controls play a crucial role in preventing theft of protected health information (PHI) by regulating who can physically access areas where sensitive data is stored or processed. Implementing strong access controls ensures that only authorized personnel can enter locations containing PHI, thus minimizing the risk of unauthorized access and potential theft.

This strategy includes measures such as key card systems, security personnel, and surveillance cameras, all of which contribute to creating a secure environment for handling sensitive information. By controlling physical access, healthcare facilities can significantly reduce the likelihood of intentional or unintentional breaches of privacy, safeguarding PHI from theft or misuse.

The other options, while important for an overall data security strategy, do not directly address physical access to sensitive information. Frequent software updates are essential for cybersecurity but focus more on protecting data from digital threats. Patient privacy notices inform individuals about their rights regarding their health information but do not provide preventive measures against theft. Disaster recovery plans are designed for data recovery in the event of a disaster and do not specifically target theft prevention. Therefore, facility access controls serve as a fundamental layer of protection for PHI.