California Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What is the main focus of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA)?

1. A federal law governing health information privacy

2. A law that regulates drug prescriptions

3. A law that provides healthcare for the uninsured

4. A state law concerning mental health records

The correct answer is: A federal law governing health information privacy

The main focus of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is to govern health information privacy at the federal level. The legislation was introduced to ensure that individuals' health information is protected while also allowing for the necessary flow of information needed to provide high-quality healthcare. HIPAA sets stringent standards for the handling and sharing of protected health information (PHI) to maintain patient confidentiality and prevent unauthorized access. While drug prescriptions, healthcare for the uninsured, and mental health records are important aspects of healthcare law, they do not encapsulate the primary purpose of HIPAA. HIPAA specifically addresses privacy concerns, establishing protocols that healthcare providers, health plans, and other entities must follow to safeguard patients' data and maintain their rights regarding their health information.