Which of the following best describes the function of the Security Rule under HIPAA?

The function of the Security Rule under HIPAA is to protect electronic protected health information (ePHI) against threats. This rule establishes national standards for safeguarding ePHI, ensuring its confidentiality, integrity, and availability through the implementation of various administrative, physical, and technical safeguards. By focusing specifically on the security aspects of health information, the Security Rule is vital in creating a framework for healthcare organizations to protect sensitive patient data from unauthorized access and breaches.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the primary aim of the Security Rule. Managing healthcare operations relates to broader organizational functions rather than specifically addressing data security. Maintaining the quality of healthcare services is important but falls outside the scope of information security as defined by HIPAA. Simplifying healthcare transactions pertains to the transactions and code sets rule, emphasizing the administrative side of healthcare rather than security measures for protecting information. Therefore, option B best encapsulates the core function of the Security Rule in its mission to safeguard electronic patient data.