Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Practice Examination

When was the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) passed?

1. 1990

2. 1996

3. 2000

4. 2006

The correct answer is: 1996

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) was passed in 1996. This legislation was created to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the healthcare system, particularly by establishing standards for the protection of patient health information. It laid the groundwork for patient rights regarding their medical records and provided guidelines on the use and disclosure of their health information. This act has significant implications for healthcare providers, insurers, and other entities working with health data, as it ensures confidentiality and security for individuals' medical information. Understanding the importance of HIPAA is crucial for counselors and other professionals in the health and mental health fields, as it directly affects how they handle sensitive client information.