Why is a federal law needed to protect health information?
Today, more and more health information is routinely shared electronically among health insurance companies, health care providers (e.g., doctors, hospitals, clinics), and employers who sponsor group health plans. The original intent of HIPAA was to establish standards for smooth, consistent, and secure electronic transmission of health care data among these parties. However, as the regulations were being prepared, the need for standards to protect personal identifiable health information were recognized.
Today, more and more health information is routinely shared electronically among health insurance companies, health care providers (e.g., doctors, hospitals, clinics), and employers who sponsor group health plans. The original intent of HIPAA was to establish standards for smooth, consistent, and secure electronic transmission of health care data among these parties. However, as the regulations were being prepared, the need for standards to protect personal identifiable health information was recognized.
