Why “HIPAA: What Employees Should Know” Matters
- HIPAA is a federal law that limits the ability of a new employer plan to exclude coverage for preexisting conditions;
- HIPAA provides additional opportunities to enroll in a group health plan if you lose other coverage or experience certain life events;
- HIPAA prohibits discrimination against employees and their dependent family members based on any health factors they may have, including prior medical conditions, previous claims experience, and genetic information;
- HIPAA protects the privacy of your medical records and other personal health information; and
- HIPAA gives you greater access and control over your information.
- Note that starting in 2014, healthcare reform legislation known as the Affordable Care Act, or ACA, gives additional health protections, including ending all preexisting condition exclusions.
- HIPAA was created to provide and promote quality health care, while keeping your personal health information private.
- Know what group plans can and can’t do under HIPAA.
- Be proactive when it comes to making sure your personal health information is protected: Get a copy of your health records, check it, and know who’s seen it!
- Know your rights! Your health information is protected by federal law!
Duration: 28 minutes