Which type of internal control is intended to signal the presence of a problem?

The correct choice indicates a specific type of internal control known as detective control. These controls are designed to identify and signal the presence of problems, such as irregularities or non-compliance. Detective controls may include activities like audits, reconciliations, or monitoring activities that can reveal issues that have already occurred.

The significance of detective controls lies in their role in providing an organization with transparency and accountability. They help ensure that any discrepancies or issues are noticed promptly, enabling the organization to take corrective measures. In the context of compliance in healthcare, identifying problems quickly is crucial to maintaining adherence to regulations and standards, thereby minimizing risks to the organization.

In contrast, other types of controls serve different purposes. Directive controls are designed to guide employees toward compliance and best practices, while preventive controls aim to avert problems before they occur. Corrective controls are implemented to address an issue once it has been detected. Thus, the nature and objective of detective controls, focusing specifically on identifying and signaling issues, make this choice the correct answer.