The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a U.S. law that protects the privacy and security of individuals' medical information. It ensures that healthcare providers, insurers, and others who handle health data maintain confidentiality and safeguard patient information. HIPAA gives patients rights over their health information, including the ability to access their records and request corrections. It aims to prevent the misuse of personal health data, promoting trust in the healthcare system while facilitating the safe exchange of medical information necessary for patient care.