What does HIPAA stand for?

HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This legislation was enacted to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare system, particularly by standardizing the electronic transmission of administrative and financial data. It also includes provisions to protect the privacy and security of individuals' health information.

The title highlights two critical components: "Portability" refers to the ability of individuals to maintain their health insurance coverage when changing jobs or undergoing life changes. "Accountability" encompasses the regulations that protect patient data and impose penalties for breaches of privacy. Understanding this act is fundamental for anyone working in healthcare or handling health information, as it sets the standard for safeguarding sensitive data.