What is the confidentiality standard for patient information in Hawaii?

The confidentiality standard for patient information in Hawaii is aligned with the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations. HIPAA establishes comprehensive guidelines designed to ensure the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI). This means that healthcare providers, insurers, and other entities handling individual health data are required to implement measures that safeguard the confidentiality of patient information. This includes obtaining patient consent before sharing their data, ensuring secure storage of records, and allowing patients to access their own health information.

In contrast to the other options, which suggest practices that would compromise patient confidentiality, adhering to HIPAA is essential in maintaining trust in the healthcare system and protecting patient rights. The requirement to protect patient information according to HIPAA regulations is a fundamental aspect of healthcare law that applies in Hawaii and across the United States.