HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a U.S. federal law designed to protect the privacy and security of individuals’ health information. HIPAA sets standards for the handling of personal health data (protected health information, or PHI) by healthcare providers, insurers, and other entities involved in healthcare transactions. It also provides individuals with rights to access and control their health information. HIPAA includes provisions for preventing data breaches, ensuring data security, and safeguarding against unauthorized disclosures. It applies to both physical records and electronic health information. Additionally, HIPAA mandates that employers protect employees’ health data in certain situations, such as during benefits administration.