In what year did HIPAA become a law?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) became law in 1996. This legislation was aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the health care system, particularly in terms of protecting patient information and ensuring that it remains confidential. HIPAA established national standards for the protection of health information and set rules for electronic healthcare transactions, making it a critical component in safeguarding patient privacy in the healthcare environment. Understanding the significance of HIPAA and its enactment in 1996 is essential for anyone working in the healthcare field, including direct care workers, as it outlines the basic rights of patients regarding their health information and the responsibilities of healthcare providers in protecting that information.