HIPAA Release of Information Guidelines

Created by Congress in 1996, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) addressed concerns that the use of electronic technology could put the privacy of health information at risk. As a result, Congress implemented federal measures to protect health information.

Purpose

• The HIPPA Privacy Rule provides national measures for the protection of health information. It is also responsible for regulating how certain entities use and disclose individually identifiable health information. The entities covered by HIPPA's Privacy Rule include health plans, health care clearinghouses and health care providers who electronically transfer health records.

Function

• The Privacy Rule allows public health information (PHI) to be shared for specific reasons, including preventing disease, disability or injury. Public health authorities understand the importance of protecting individual privacy and respecting individual dignity to maintain the quality and integrity of health information.

Features

• There are several provisions covered under HIPAA's Privacy Rule to protect the rights of patients. Under the privacy rule, patients have a right to access their own medical records and request corrections. Violators are held accountable with criminal and civil penalties if they violate patients' privacy rights. Patients are also able to make informed decisions based on how their information is used.