What type of measures are classified as "administrative safeguards" in HIPAA?

Administrative safeguards in HIPAA specifically refer to the policies and procedures put in place to manage the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of electronic Protected Health Information (ePHI). These measures include the establishment of security management processes, workforce training, and the implementation of access controls to protect sensitive information.

By focusing on policies and procedures, administrative safeguards ensure that all staff members understand their roles in protecting ePHI, identify potential risks, and respond swiftly to any security incidents. This aspect of HIPAA compliance is crucial because it addresses how an organization’s operations and staff behavior contribute to overall data security.

In contrast, other options such as legislative reforms, physical security measures, and employee wellness programs do not align with the definition of administrative safeguards. Legislative reforms pertain to creating or amending laws, while physical security measures relate to the protection of facilities and equipment. Employee wellness programs focus on the health of employees rather than the management of ePHI. Hence, the correct choice highlights the fundamental role that policies and procedures play in safeguarding sensitive health information under HIPAA.