Question 1
A local nonprofit organization that promotes healthy living in low income communities is planning an outreach program for members of the community that have type 2 diabetes. The organization plans to partner with local hospitals and
health centers in order to reach patients.
Which government regulation do the healthcare providers need to consider to ensure that they do not illegally provide patient information?
Healthcare providers need to consider the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) to ensure that they do not illegally provide patient information1. HIPAA establishes national standards to protect individuals' medical records and other individually identifiable health information, including protected health information2. It applies to health plans, health care clearinghouses, and health care providers that conduct certain health care transactions electronically2. The Privacy Rule within HIPAA sets a baseline of protection for health information and allows patients to choose whether their health information may be disclosed for specific purposes such as treatment, payment, and health care operations3. Therefore, healthcare providers partnering with local hospitals and health centers should adhere to HIPAA guidelines to safeguard patient privacy.