Which legislation addresses patient privacy and confidentiality?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is critical legislation that specifically addresses patient privacy and confidentiality. Enacted in 1996, HIPAA provides national standards for the protection of individuals' medical records and other personal health information. It establishes guidelines that healthcare providers and organizations must follow to ensure that this sensitive information is kept private and secure.

Under HIPAA, individuals have the right to access their health information, request corrections, and receive clear information about how their data may be used and shared. The legislation also mandates that covered entities implement safeguards to protect the confidentiality and integrity of health information. Violations of HIPAA can lead to significant penalties, emphasizing the importance of maintaining patient privacy in the healthcare system.

Other options do not focus on privacy and confidentiality in the same comprehensive way. While the Patient Care Assurance Act may have provisions ensuring care and quality, it does not specifically address the privacy aspects of patient data. The Americans with Disabilities Act primarily focuses on preventing discrimination against individuals with disabilities, and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act aims to improve healthcare access but does not directly deal with privacy regulations. Thus, HIPAA remains the cornerstone of patient privacy legislation.