NIST offers new guide on HIPAA security

The National Institute of Standards and Technology has issued a new guide on securing health information.The document specifies the type of systems needed to meet the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act security mandates that take effect April 20.An Introductory Resource Guide for Implementing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Security Rule details the minimum requirements to secure health information and systems.NIST identifies resources relevant to the security standards included in the HIPAA security rule and provides implementation examples for each.The rule applies to agencies that transmit health information in electronic form. Doctors and hospitals also must secure and protect patient information.To read the guide, go to and enter 400 in the Quickfind search box.