Last updated on Jan 01 2023

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a federal law that was enacted in 1996. Its main purpose is to protect the privacy of individuals' health information and to ensure the security and confidentiality of that information.

HIPAA applies to a wide range of entities, including health care providers, health plans, and health care clearinghouses. These entities are known as "covered entities" under HIPAA.

One of the key provisions of HIPAA is the requirement for covered entities to implement safeguards to protect the privacy of individuals' health information. This includes measures such as using encryption to protect the confidentiality of electronic health records and limiting access to health information to only those individuals who have a legitimate need to know.

Another important aspect of HIPAA is the requirement for covered entities to provide individuals with access to their own health information. This means that individuals have the right to request copies of their health records and to request corrections to any information that is inaccurate or incomplete.

In addition to the privacy and security requirements, HIPAA also includes provisions that address the electronic transmission of health information. This includes standards for electronic health care transactions, such as the electronic submission of claims to health plans.

HIPAA also includes provisions that address the use and disclosure of individuals' health information. For example, covered entities are generally prohibited from using or disclosing an individual's health information for marketing purposes without the individual's written permission.

In general, HIPAA is a complex law that has a significant impact on the way that health care organizations handle individuals' health information. It is important for covered entities to understand and comply with the requirements of HIPAA in order to protect the privacy and security of individuals' health information.

Overall, HIPAA is an important law that helps to ensure the privacy and security of individuals' health information. By implementing the appropriate safeguards and complying with the requirements of HIPAA, covered entities can protect the sensitive information of their patients and clients.