What should a covered entity include in its security management process?

A covered entity must include risk analysis and risk management strategies in its security management process to ensure compliance with HIPAA regulations. This requirement is a fundamental aspect of safeguarding protected health information (PHI) and maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of electronic health information.

Risk analysis involves identifying potential vulnerabilities and threats to the organization's data security, while risk management strategies are developed to mitigate those risks. By conducting a thorough risk analysis, a covered entity can pinpoint where protections are needed most and implement appropriate administrative, physical, and technical safeguards. This proactive approach not only ensures compliance with federal regulations but also protects patients' sensitive information from unauthorized access and potential breaches.

Other options, while important in their respective contexts, do not address the essential requirements mandated by HIPAA for protecting health information in a comprehensive and structured manner. For instance, patient satisfaction surveys, financial audits, and medical coding procedures focus on different aspects of healthcare operations and do not directly relate to the security management processes needed to protect PHI.