What does the acronym HIPAA stand for?

The acronym HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This legislation, enacted in 1996, was designed to protect patients' medical records and other personal health information. It ensures that individuals have greater control over their health information and sets standards for how medical providers, health insurance companies, and other entities handle this sensitive data.

One of the primary objectives of HIPAA is to provide health insurance coverage for individuals who lose or change their jobs, which is where "Portability" comes into play. Additionally, the "Accountability" aspect refers to the responsibilities placed on healthcare providers to ensure the confidentiality and security of patients’ health information.

Understanding HIPAA is crucial for anyone working in healthcare as it emphasizes the importance of patient privacy and the legal implications associated with breaches of health information.