What does the 'Notice of Privacy Practices' inform patients about?

The 'Notice of Privacy Practices' plays a crucial role in healthcare by informing patients about their rights regarding the use and disclosure of their health information. This document is mandated by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and must be provided to patients when they first receive services.

Specifically, it outlines patients' rights to access their medical records, request amendments to their information, and obtain accounting of disclosures. Moreover, it explains how healthcare providers can use or share patient information and sets forth the legal protections afforded to patients under HIPAA.

Understanding these rights is essential for patients to ensure their health information is handled appropriately and to empower them to take an active role in their healthcare decisions. Other options relate to different aspects of healthcare but do not capture the fundamental purpose of the 'Notice of Privacy Practices,' which is specifically focused on patient rights concerning their health information.