Which law requires healthcare providers to keep patient information private?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is the law that requires healthcare providers to keep patient information private. This legislation was enacted in 1996 and plays a crucial role in safeguarding the privacy and security of individuals' health information. HIPAA establishes national standards for the protection of certain health information and ensures that patients have rights over their information, including the ability to access their medical records and request corrections when needed.

One of the primary objectives of HIPAA is to prevent unauthorized access to patient records, thereby enhancing confidentiality and trust in the healthcare system. Healthcare providers, health plans, and other entities that handle patient information must comply with strict guidelines to protect sensitive data from breaches or misuse.