HIPAA, or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, was passed in 1996. Congress approved it with the aim to establish industry-wide standards regarding health care information. The driving force behind HIPAA is the belief that a patient’s medical history is personal and should remain private. All healthcare practitioners, from your family doctor to your cardiologist, must abide by the regulations set forth in HIPAA, or they will face severe penalties.

A Local Family Doctor Shares What to Know About HIPAA

1. You Have the Right to Access Your Information

In addition to protecting personal information, health care providers are also required to make medical records accessible for their patients. You have the right to access your health information, even if you have an outstanding medical bill.  

2. You Have the Right to Share Your Medical Records

You can technically send your medical records to anyone you wish; however, it is important to keep in mind that access to such document makes you more vulnerable to issues like identity theft. Once you send your health care information to a third party, your provider is no longer responsible for its security.  

3. Not Everyone Must Follow the Regulations of HIPAA

While HIPAA might grant you some peace of mind, it’s important to remember that not all organizations who have access to your personal information are required to follow its regulations. For example, life insurers, employers, school districts, law enforcement agencies, and workers’ compensation carriers do not have to follow the Privacy and Security Rules established in HIPAA.

At MediCenter in Kenai, AK, you can rely on their competent team of urgent care providers to protect your privacy and your health. Visit their website to learn more about the services they provide at this family medicine clinic and call (907) 283-9118 to schedule an appointment with a family doctor today.