Privacy & security

HIPAA

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act — Privacy and Security Rules

US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS/OCR)Latest · 45 CFR Parts 160 and 164US federal regulation. Enforced by HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR).

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Scope

HIPAA's Privacy Rule (Subpart E) governs the use and disclosure of protected health information, and its Security Rule (Subpart C) sets safeguards for electronic PHI. Together they define what can be recorded in the room, who may access it, and how it must be protected.

Where it applies in the room

  • Audio, video, and image capture in patient care areas
  • Access controls on EHR, monitor, and camera feeds
  • Business Associate Agreements with technology vendors

Caveats

  • HHS published a proposed update to the Security Rule in January 2025. As of this check it remains a proposed rule; the current Security Rule continues to apply. Check the Federal Register for final action.

Source & further reading

Also known as

  • HIPAA Privacy Rule
  • HIPAA Security Rule
  • HIPAA
  • 45 CFR Part 164

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