HIPAA Security Rule

The HIPAA Security Rule address what steps a covered entity must take to prevent unauthorized access to electronic protected health information, ensure the integrity of that information, and ensure the information remains available. The Security Rule also requires covered entities to implement administrative, physical and technical safeguards. These safeguards set guidelines for internal and external use of protected health information and require a periodic evaluation to determine if an entity’s security policies and procedures meet the requirements of the rules.

The Security Rule will help improve the Medicare and Medicaid programs, other Federal health programs, and private health programs. Security will also increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the health care industry by creating a level of protection for certain electronic health information.