What does information governance encompass?

Information governance refers to the framework and processes that organizations put in place to manage their information in a way that meets compliance requirements, supports business objectives, and enhances data quality. This includes establishing organizational structures, as well as developing policies and procedures that govern how data is created, stored, managed, and disposed of throughout its lifecycle.

The focus on organizational structures highlights the importance of leadership and accountability in managing information, ensuring that roles are defined and responsibilities are clear. Policies and procedures are critical for guiding day-to-day operations, ensuring data security, and supporting compliance with regulations such as HIPAA or other privacy laws.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the full breadth of information governance. While data storage measures are important, they are only a small part of the overall framework and do not encompass the strategic management of information. A system for patient management is more focused on operational processes rather than the overarching governance framework necessary to manage all types of information effectively. Likewise, protocols specifically for medical billing represent a functional aspect of healthcare, but information governance involves a much broader perspective on how all information within an organization is governed.