What is the expectation regarding patient confidentiality under HIPAA?

Under HIPAA, the expectation regarding patient confidentiality is that all patient information will be kept private and secure. This regulation establishes stringent guidelines for protecting the privacy and security of individuals' health information. Healthcare providers, health plans, and other entities that handle patient data are required to implement measures that ensure this information is not disclosed without the patient's consent, except under specific, regulated circumstances.

This principle is foundational to building trust between patients and healthcare providers, allowing patients to seek medical care without fear of their personal information being improperly shared or exposed. HIPAA also addresses various forms of patient information, including electronic, written, and oral communications, reinforcing that confidentiality is not limited to just one type of record.