Don’t confuse HIPAA laws with true protection. It is quite common for many of us to read quickly through or barely skim the authorization form before signing it. But it is important to know that these laws are in place to protect you from identity theft. It was once thought to protect from being denied care or being denied health insurance coverage, but that no longer holds true.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, was established in 1996. These laws created a new standard in the protection of individuals’ personal and health information. Many of us need to use a number of physicians, hospitals or clinics, while all of our information follows us. This health information is likely to be transported electronically. These laws specifically are made to protect your personal information through these particular channels.
HIPAA protects your personal information such as Social Security number, address, birth date and other personal information you may have put on your forms. In addition, it states that information such as mental and physical conditions and treatment cannot be disclosed. This is the case for current, past and future health information. The intent is to provide more protection for you against identity theft, which is rampant these days. There are options for cases where there is a breach in security.
HIPAA laws also define how health insurance providers can use your information. They may only use your information without your permission if it is necessary to provide the best health care, sending information to you and, of course, collection on medical expenses. Any other reasons to transfer this information must be authorized by you, in writing. In addition, any authorization must be in plain English so it is understood that you know exactly what you are signing.
These health information laws were put in place to protect your private information and medical information. However, health insurance providers have found ways around this. For example, you must authorize them to view your past medical records if you want them to consider selling you insurance. But if they don’t like what they see in your medical history, they can deny you.
Since the Insurance Portability section of HIPAA falls short these days, it is important that we find more protection so we are not denied health insurance coverage for any reason. Learn more about the laws in your state from your local, state government. Then seriously consider if privatization is in the best interest of America or the insurance companies.
Here is alternative health protection and personal health insurance thoughts for personal accountability