19 Questions Answered
Frequently Asked Questions
The questions patients ask us most about HIPAA, medical records, and privacy. Full answers are being restored from the legacy archive — in the meantime, see Know Your Rights for in-depth guidance.
The questions patients ask us most
1
What is HIPAA?
2
How did the Amended HIPAA Rule eliminate my medical privacy?
3
I signed a Privacy Notice at my doctor's office. What's in that notice?
4
What is a covered entity?
5
Why should I worry if a company is "HIPAA compliant"?
6
What is a "self-insured" employer?
7
How can my insurer or employer access my medical records without my permission?
8
Can I prevent my doctor from reporting a procedure to my insurance company?
9
Can my medical records be disclosed without informed consent at treatment time?
10
Can hospital employees see my medical records?
11
Will I find out whether a friend or relative is in the hospital?
12
Are my prescriptions private?
13
How can drug companies use my health data to market to me?
14
What can I do if I think my medical privacy has been violated?
15
How can I prove medical privacy violations?
16
What information can be found in my medical record?
17
Should I have a copy of my medical records?
18
Who has access to my medical records?
19
Why is "anonymous", "de-identified", or "aggregate" data problematic?
Know Your Rights
Understanding HIPAA and medical privacy laws empowers you to protect your health information.
Ask Questions
Never hesitate to ask your healthcare provider about how your data is used, stored, and shared.
Take Action
Report privacy violations and support organizations working to strengthen patient protections.
Still have questions?
If you believe your medical privacy has been violated or need further guidance, reach out to us or explore our rights resources.