When was HIPAA created?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) was created on August 21, 1996. This legislation was a significant advancement in ensuring the privacy and security of individuals' medical information. One of the primary aims of HIPAA was to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare system while safeguarding patient information through stringent regulations on data handling and sharing.

HIPAA established important guidelines for protecting health information, setting a standard that healthcare providers and organizations must follow to ensure confidentiality and security. The law also facilitated the portability of health insurance coverage for employees between jobs, which is where its name originates.

Understanding the date and implications of HIPAA is crucial for individuals working in healthcare, as compliance with these regulations directly impacts patient trust and organizational integrity.