The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) is an important law that protects the privacy of people who are receiving medical care. HIPAA does a few different things, including preventing medical professionals like nurses, doctors, therapists, and insurance providers from sharing your medical history or information to others without your permission. Check out these resources to discover your rights as a patient under HIPAA.
HIPAA Frequently Asked Questions
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a page of frequently asked questions about HIPAA.
This resource from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has a bunch of links that include information on who has to follow HIPAA, what your rights are, and how to file a complaint if you think your rights have been violated.
HIPAA Privacy Rule and Sharing Information Related to Mental Health
Mental health information is considered medical information and is generally protected by HIPAA. This document from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services outlines frequently asked questions and exceptions for mental health professionals and mental health information protection under HIPAA.