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What is the main purpose of HIPAA?

1. To improve healthcare coverage

2. To protect patient privacy and the release of information

3. To regulate medical insurance fees

4. To increase accessibility of medical records

The correct answer is: To protect patient privacy and the release of information

The main purpose of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is to protect patient privacy and the security of personal health information. This legislation established national standards for the protection of individuals' medical records and other personal health information, ensuring that such information is not disclosed without the individual's consent. By focusing on maintaining confidentiality, HIPAA aims to give patients more control over their health information and to establish safeguards that prevent unauthorized access. While other options, like improving healthcare coverage and increasing accessibility of medical records, touch on important aspects of healthcare, the overarching goal of HIPAA is specifically centered on the protection of patient privacy. This emphasis makes it a crucial aspect of healthcare policy, aimed at fostering trust between patients and healthcare providers regarding the handling of sensitive information.