Which entities are covered under HIPAA regulations?

The correct choice emphasizes that HIPAA regulations are specifically designed to protect the privacy and security of health information handled by certain types of entities. Under HIPAA, the covered entities include healthcare providers who transmit any health information in electronic form in connection with a HIPAA transaction, health plans that provide medical care or payment for healthcare services, and healthcare clearinghouses that process nonstandard health information received from another entity into a standard format. This comprehensive definition ensures that a wide range of organizations involved in the healthcare system must adhere to strict guidelines regarding the handling of personal health information.

Choosing the correct answer clarifies that it encompasses not just hospitals and health insurance companies, but also other healthcare providers and entities that maintain patient information, providing a broader protection for patient privacy across the healthcare landscape. This collective responsibility under HIPAA is vital in maintaining high standards of confidentiality and security in health information processes.