What is a "Notice of Privacy Practices"?

A "Notice of Privacy Practices" is fundamentally a document that informs patients about how their Protected Health Information (PHI) may be used and disclosed in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This notice outlines the rights of individuals regarding their PHI, such as their right to access their information, request amendments, and seek accounting of disclosures. It also details the specific ways a healthcare provider or organization may utilize or share the patient's information, ensuring transparency and compliance with privacy regulations. The purpose of this document is to educate patients so they can make informed decisions about their healthcare and understand how their information is being handled.