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Privacy and Health Information The privacy of your health information is protected under a federal law called the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This law sets rules and limits on who is allowed to access your health information. Who must follow this law? Most doctors, nurses, psychologists, social workers, pharmacies, hospitals, other healthcare providers and staff, and their business associates or vendors Health insurance companies, HMOs, and most other employer health plans Government programs that pay for healthcare, such as Medicare, Medicaid, and CHAMPVA What information is protected? Any identifying or health information in your medical records Conversations you or your doctor have with nurses and others about your care Information about you in your health insurer’s computer system Financial and billing information in your medical record Most other health information about you held by those who must follow this law What rights do you have over your health information? Healthcare providers and insurers must comply with your right to: Ask to see and get a copy of your health records Have corrections added to your health information Receive a notice that tells you how your health information may be used and shared Decide if you want to give your permission before your health information can be used or shared for certain purposes, such as for marketing Get a report on when and why your health information was shared Request that those who must follow HIPAA restrict how they use or share your health information File a complaint Who can see and receive your health information? To make sure your health information is protected in a way that doesn’t interfere with your healthcare, your information can be used and shared with: Healthcare providers to give and coordinate your care Hospital and doctor billing offices Family or others helping with your healthcare or your healthcare bills, unless you object Law enforcement or public health officials when reporting is required Without your written permission, your provider cannot: Give your health information to your employer Use or share your health information or image for marketing or advertising Share notes about mental health evaluation or counseling with anyone outside your care team Your Privacy Matters
Right to Report If you believe your rights are being denied or your health information isn’t being protected, you can file a complaint with your provider, health insurer, or the U.S. government at ocrportal.hhs.gov/ocr/ smartscreen/main.jsf
or by scanning the code.
Source: U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, Office for Civil Rights
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