What does HIPAA stand for?

HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This legislation was enacted in 1996 to improve the portability and accountability of health insurance coverage, as well as to establish standards for the protection of sensitive patient health information. The focus of HIPAA is on ensuring that individuals can maintain their health insurance even when changing jobs, along with implementing regulations that safeguard personal health information from unauthorized access or disclosure.

The acronym accurately reflects the act's core functions: "Health Insurance" pertains to the insurance aspect of healthcare; "Portability" relates to the ability to switch insurance or maintain coverage; and "Accountability" refers to the requirements placed on healthcare providers and entities to protect patient information. Understanding this legislation is crucial for professionals working in healthcare to ensure compliance and the protection of patient rights.