Final answer:
A release of information company qualifies as a business associate because it deals with protected health information (PHI) and would need a business associate agreement. (option c)
Step-by-step explanation:
The understanding of who qualifies as a business associate in the context of a business associate agreement. A business associate is typically an entity or person, other than a member of the workforce of a covered entity, who performs functions or activities on behalf of, or provides certain services to, a covered entity that involves the use or disclosure of protected health information (PHI). In the case of the options provided:
Security guards would generally not be considered business associates unless they have access to PHI in the course of their duties.
Childbirth class instructors, unless they work for a covered entity and handle PHI, would not typically be business associates.
A release of information company that deals with PHI would qualify as a business associate.
Bulk food service providers would not be business associates unless they also deal with PHI.
Out of the options listed, the release of information company would qualify as a business associate, and therefore, would need to enter into a business associate agreement.