Which statement about patient confidentiality is true?

The statement indicating that only authorized personnel can access records is accurate because it underlines the fundamental principle of patient confidentiality. In healthcare settings, maintaining confidentiality means that a patient's medical records and personal health information can only be viewed or shared with individuals who have explicit permission, typically healthcare providers involved in the patient's care or those with a legal right to access such information. This is in line with regulations such as HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), which emphasizes the protection of patient privacy and dictates who can access sensitive information.

Safeguarding patient records ensures that individuals' private information is not exposed unnecessarily, fostering trust between patients and healthcare providers. This principle also reinforces the ethical obligations of healthcare professionals to respect patient autonomy and confidentiality.