Legislation and Regulations (HIPAA) Flashcards

Under HIPAA, what constitutes Protected Health Information (PHI)?

Answer: Any individually identifiable health information including name, address, dates, and treatment information

PHI includes any individually identifiable health information in any form -- oral, written, or electronic.

What is the 'minimum necessary' standard under HIPAA?

Answer: Only the minimum PHI necessary for the intended purpose should be used or disclosed

The minimum necessary standard limits PHI access to what is needed for the specific purpose.

What are potential consequences for HIPAA violations by interpreters?

Answer: Civil penalties up to $50,000 per violation, criminal penalties including fines and imprisonment

HIPAA violations can result in significant civil and criminal penalties for individuals and organizations.

How does Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 relate to medical interpreting?

Answer: Prohibits discrimination based on national origin, requiring federally funded healthcare facilities to provide language access

Title VI requires organizations receiving federal funding to provide meaningful access to services for LEP individuals.

What is a Business Associate Agreement (BAA)?

Answer: HIPAA-required agreement extending privacy obligations to third parties handling PHI

A BAA extends HIPAA's privacy and security obligations to business associates like interpreting services.

Under what circumstances may an interpreter disclose patient information without authorization?

Answer: Only in specific legally permitted situations: mandatory reporting, court orders, or public health emergencies

HIPAA permits disclosure without authorization only in specific legally defined circumstances.