Describe the "Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act" (HIPAA).

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) primarily serves two critical functions: it protects patient privacy and establishes standards for the portability of health coverage. The law ensures that individuals can maintain their health insurance coverage when they change jobs or experience other life events that might affect their insurance status. This focus on portability is essential because it helps prevent gaps in coverage, ultimately leading to better continuity of care for patients.

Moreover, HIPAA is well-known for enforcing strict guidelines on the confidentiality of patient information. It mandates that healthcare providers, insurance companies, and other entities handling personal health information implement measures to safeguard that data against unauthorized access and breaches. By doing so, HIPAA enhances patient trust in the healthcare system, knowing that their sensitive information is being respected and protected.

In contrast, while the other choices mention various aspects related to health insurance, they do not accurately reflect the core purpose and provisions of HIPAA. The act is not primarily about changing providers, regulating rates, or mandating discounts; rather, it focuses on the dual aspects of privacy protection and coverage portability.