To protect patient confidentiality, physical therapists must:

To protect patient confidentiality, physical therapists must:

• A. Communicate patient information freely
• B. Store all records in an accessible shared drive
• C. Limit access to patient information to authorized individuals only
• D. Discuss patient cases openly in public places

Answer: (C)

Limiting access to patient information to authorized individuals is essential for safeguarding patient confidentiality. This practice aligns with legal and ethical standards set forth by regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). Maintaining confidentiality is a foundational aspect of the patient-therapist relationship, helping to foster trust and ensure that sensitive information is not disclosed without patient consent. By restricting access to those who have a legitimate need to know—such as other healthcare providers involved in the patient's care—physical therapists can help prevent unauthorized information sharing and protect patients' rights. This careful management of information reinforces the obligation to maintain privacy while allowing for necessary communication among healthcare professionals in a controlled and secure manner. In contrast, the other options would undermine patient confidentiality and violate key ethical and legal standards.

Limiting access to patient information to authorized individuals is essential for safeguarding patient confidentiality. This practice aligns with legal and ethical standards set forth by regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). Maintaining confidentiality is a foundational aspect of the patient-therapist relationship, helping to foster trust and ensure that sensitive information is not disclosed without patient consent.

By restricting access to those who have a legitimate need to know—such as other healthcare providers involved in the patient's care—physical therapists can help prevent unauthorized information sharing and protect patients' rights. This careful management of information reinforces the obligation to maintain privacy while allowing for necessary communication among healthcare professionals in a controlled and secure manner.

In contrast, the other options would undermine patient confidentiality and violate key ethical and legal standards.