What is the primary concern of the security rule?

The primary concern of the security rule is indeed centered on protecting PHI (Protected Health Information) in both physical and electronic records. This encompasses a range of measures that health care organizations must implement to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and security of individuals' health information.

The security rule specifically addresses the handling of PHI in electronic form, mandating safeguards that cover technical, administrative, and physical aspects to prevent unauthorized access and disclosures. By focusing on these areas, the security rule aligns with the broader goals of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which aims to ensure patient data remains secure in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

In contrast, the other options reflect different aspects of healthcare regulation or information management. Protecting patient financial information, while important, is only a component of broader health information protections. Regulating health insurance portability pertains more to the accessibility and transfer of insurance benefits rather than the security of health information. Promoting health information exchange focuses on enabling the sharing of information among providers and systems to improve care, rather than the direct safeguarding of that information.