Business associates are required to sign business associate contracts with which of the following?

• A. External auditors
• B. Vendors of office supplies
• C. Shareholders
• D. Covered entities

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of 'business associate contracts' in the context of financial accounting and compliance. These contracts are typically required under regulations like HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) to ensure the protection of sensitive information.
2. Identify the parties involved in business associate contracts. These contracts are generally signed between a 'covered entity' (such as healthcare providers, health plans, or clearinghouses) and a 'business associate' (an entity that performs services involving protected information).
3. Analyze the options provided in the problem: External auditors, Vendors of office supplies, Shareholders, and Covered entities. Determine which of these parties qualifies as a 'covered entity' under the relevant regulations.
4. Recognize that external auditors, vendors of office supplies, and shareholders do not typically fall under the category of 'covered entities' as defined by regulations like HIPAA. Covered entities are specifically organizations that handle protected health information.
5. Conclude that business associate contracts are required to be signed with covered entities, as they are the ones responsible for ensuring compliance with regulations regarding sensitive information.