What does the acronym "HIPAA" stand for?

The acronym "HIPAA" stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This important legislation was enacted in 1996 to establish national standards for the protection of sensitive patient health information. HIPAA's primary objectives include ensuring that individuals can maintain their health insurance coverage when they change or lose their jobs (portability) and safeguarding the privacy and security of their health information (accountability).

The emphasis on portability allows individuals to carry their health insurance from one employer to another, thus reducing the likelihood of losing coverage. The accountability aspect involves strict rules about how healthcare providers, insurers, and other entities handle personal health information, promoting confidentiality and trust in healthcare systems.

Understanding the official terms and standards defined by HIPAA is crucial for anyone working in healthcare, as it directly impacts how patient information must be managed and protected.