What does the abbreviation "HIPAA" stand for?

The abbreviation "HIPAA" stands for "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act." This federal legislation, enacted in 1996, primarily aims to protect the privacy and security of individuals' medical information while providing them with the ability to maintain their health insurance coverage during transitions between jobs. By facilitating the portability of health insurance, the act helps individuals retain their benefits when they change employment. Additionally, HIPAA establishes national standards for the protection of health information, which is crucial in promoting patient confidentiality and trust in healthcare systems. Understanding HIPAA is essential for anyone working in healthcare to ensure that they comply with regulations regarding the handling of sensitive patient information.