HIPAA is one of the most important terms in the health care industry. Originally, HIPAA was drafted to protect citizens who were jobless and needed health coverage. However, now HIPPA has shifted its focus towards protecting patient information.
If you’re new to the health care industry or you’re a new patient, you’re probably wondering what is the importance of HIPAA? So keep reading our comprehensive guide to understanding the benefits of HIPAA!
HIPAA Benefits
HIPAA protects anyone and everyone! For example, they still provide health insurance for Americans who are in between jobs or have lost their jobs. Also, the rates of health care fraud have significantly decreased since HIPAA.
Not to mention, HIPAA has also made it easier and more secure for patients to pay their medical bills!
How Does HIPAA Protect Patients?
So why is HIPAA important you may ask? For starters, HIPAA was first established to protect patients. However, to protect patients there must be a set of rules for health entities to follow. For example, HIPAA-covered entities are required to have protection against hackers that can steal sensitive information.
Without HIPPAA, sensitive information could be easily leaked or stolen. And these entities would face no repercussions. Therefore, HIPAA not only protects the patient but also protects entities.
With HIPAA, patients are able to take control of their personal information by choosing who can and can’t have access to their records. For example, they can sign information disclosure agreements and only have specific family members view their medical records.
However, HIPAA guidelines highly restrict how information is sent. For starters, most health entities are not allowed to give out personal information over the phone. Even if the person is on the disclosure agreement!
Overall, HIPAA benefits the patient because it allows them to have an active role in their health choices and privacy.
Importance of HIPAA for Healthcare Organizations
HIPAA revolutionized the way healthcare entities store information. For example, they introduced a modern approach to the industry by switching over to electronic copies instead of paper copies of health information.
Here are some more benefits of HIPAA:
- Improve healthcare performance
- Streamline administrative functions
- Protect workers and patients
- Helps transfer sensitive information faster
Overall, the standards set by HIPAA helps to keep everyone on the same page when it comes to electronic health information.
This way there’s no miscommunication between any health care providers! If you still have more questions about HIPAA, you can learn more on hippa.
Safety Is the Number One Goal
The importance of HIPAA goes far beyond just protecting confidential information! HIPAA protects patients and workers from big-time frauds and potentially life-threatening situations.
So the next time you’re in a health care facility, remember the importance of HIPAA.
