This list was updated on May 30, 2012.
Interpretation of Regulations
The HIPAA regulations are federal regulations enforced and interpreted by the U. S.
Department of Health and Human Services. The Texas State Board of Pharmacy is not in a
position to interpret these federal regulations. Using the links on this page
should answer almost all your questions.
What is HIPAA?
Patient Privacy & Payment Transactions
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) required the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services to issue regulations governing health care
entities that engage in electronic health care transactions. HIPAA regulations apply both
to the form of electronic health care transactions and the privacy of patient
information. Compliance with the regulations concerning payment transactions is now required unless an
extension was granted. Compliance with patient privacy regulations is mandated for April
2003.
State Law
Chapter 181 of the Health and Safety Code is the state law that governs privacy of patient
information. Section 181.101 states:
Compliance With Federal Regulations
A covered entity shall comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
and Privacy Standards relating to:
(1) an individual's access to the individual's protected health information;
(2) amendment of protected health information;
(3) uses and disclosures of protected health information, including requirements relating
to consent; and
(4) notice of privacy practices for protected health information.
Chapter 181, including Section 181.152, Marketing Uses of Information.
