HIPAA stands for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. The earliest administrative simplification regulations of HIPAA became effective in 2002.

HIPAA is a set of rules to be followed by doctors, hospitals and other health care providers that helps ensure that all medical records, medical billing, and patient accounts meet certain consistent standards with regard to documentation, handling and privacy.

HIPAA requires that all patients be able access their own medical records, correct errors or omissions, and be informed how personal information is shared and privacy procedures.

The purpose of the Administrative Simplification provisions is to standardize electronic transactions and to ensure the privacy and security of sensitive health information. Administrative Simplification is broken down into three main categories:

• Transactions & Code Sets
• Privacy
• Security

This material is provided on the recipient's agreement that it will only be used for the purpose of describing UnitedHealthcare National Accounts products and services to the recipient. Any other use, copying or distribution without the express written permission of UnitedHealthcare National Accounts is prohibited. - 04/25/07