What does the term “CE” refer to in the context of HIPAA?

In the context of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), the term “CE” refers to a Covered Entity. Covered Entities are organizations or individuals that must comply with HIPAA regulations due to the handling of protected health information (PHI). This includes health care providers who transmit any health information in electronic form, health plans, and health care clearinghouses.

Covered Entities are directly responsible for ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and security of patient data. They are required to implement appropriate safeguards to protect PHI, inform patients of their rights, and have procedures in place for managing breaches of this information.

Understanding the role of Covered Entities is crucial for anyone working in health information management, as it informs their responsibilities in maintaining compliance with HIPAA standards and protecting patient information from unauthorized access or disclosure.