Introduction to HIPAA

The acronym HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and was passed by the US Congress in 1996. This legislation aims to safeguard the privacy of healthcare records and the security of patients’ information related to health, insurance coverage and payment of medical bills. It is the federal law that Governs the way that medical and health-related information is managed by healthcare providers and organizations, and is designed to protect the confidentiality and integrity of Protected Health Information orPHI.

The Requirements of HIPAA

The HIPAA Privacy Rule creates national standards to protect individuals’ medical records and other Personal Health Information (PHI) held by health plans, hospitals, and other health care providers, healthcare clearinghouses, and business associates. The rule restricts certain uses and disclosures of PHI, and provides individuals the right to inspect and to obtain a copy of their own health records; To amend or receive notice of disclosures; and to request confidential communication, restrictions.

The HIPAA Security Rule applies to all entities who create, receive, store, or transmit PHI in electronic form and must ensure that all electronic PHI is kept secure. This includes measures to protect against any unauthorized access, alteration, transmission, or disclosure of electronic PHI.

The Impact of HIPAA

HIPAA has had a significant impact on the healthcare industry and the way that medical providers and health data is managed. Organizations must adhere to HIPAA regulations and must protect patients’ PHI or face a variety of serious legal and financial penalties. It is important for organizations to have safeguards in place to protect the privacy of patients’ information and to ensure that all personnel are trained in the handling of PHI.

Organizations who must comply with HIPAA also must be aware of advances in technology and keep up with changes in the law. The rules within HIPAA are complex and can be difficult to implement and understand. Organizations must be knowledgeable of regulations and practice due diligence to avoid any potential violations.

The objective of the HIPAA statute was to ensure the security and privacy of medical information and the health information of each individual with the intent of providing the best possible care. Compliance is not only the right thing to do, it’s required by law. Knowing more about HIPAA and how it affects the healthcare industry is essential to areseeking quality healthcare.