Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

What does HIPAA stand for?

1. Health Information Protection and Accountability Act

2. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

3. Healthcare Improvement and Patient Advocacy Act

4. Health Individual Privacy and Advocacy Act

The correct answer is: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

The correct answer is the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. This legislation, commonly known as HIPAA, was enacted in 1996 and serves several key functions, primarily centered around the protection of individuals' medical records and other personal health information. The act consists of provisions that ensure the confidentiality and security of health information, as well as supporting the continuity of health insurance coverage for workers and their families when they change or lose jobs. Thus, "portability" refers to the ability to maintain health insurance coverage across different jobs, while "accountability" emphasizes the responsibilities healthcare entities have in safeguarding sensitive patient information. The other options present variations of the acronym that do not align with the actual title of the legislation or its intent. Understanding the full scope of HIPAA helps in recognizing its importance in the realm of healthcare, especially concerning patient rights and data privacy.