Understanding HIPAA and what information can and cannot be released to families about their loved ones is among the many frustrations of Brian Simmons’ family.
HIPAA can protect a person’s privacy, but it also can be a roadblock to getting them help as it was when Brian was evaluated. The family tried to get results but were denied due to HIPAA rules.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act was signed into law in 1996 to modernize the flow of health-care information.
The main thrust of HIPAA is to stipulate how personally identifiable information maintained by health-care providers and insurance companies should be protected against fraud and the limitations of how that information can be shared with anyone other than the patient and their authorized representatives.
It is designed to protect the privacy of the patient.
