What does HIPAA stand for?

The correct answer is that HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This federal law was enacted in 1996 with the primary purpose of protecting the privacy and security of individuals' health information. It sets national standards for the electronic exchange, privacy, and security of health information.

HIPAA also ensures that individuals have greater control over their health information and outlines the rights of patients regarding their personal health records. It serves to provide protections for the privacy of health information, setting guidelines for how that information can be shared and used, particularly in healthcare organizations and related services.

Understanding HIPAA is crucial for those in the healthcare field, including nursing assistants, as it emphasizes the importance of maintaining confidentiality and ensuring that patient information is handled with care and respect.