
HIPAA Covered Entity: What It Means and Who Qualifies
HIPAA compliance is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, and understanding what it means to be a "covered entity" under HIPAA is crucial for anyone working in the field. Whether you're a healthcare provider, a health plan, or a healthcare clearinghouse, knowing your responsibilities under HIPAA can help you protect patient data and avoid costly penalties. This article will break down the concept of a HIPAA covered entity, who qualifies, and what steps you should take to ensure compliance.