What is the main focus of the HIPAA Omnibus Rule?

The main focus of the HIPAA Omnibus Rule is to strengthen privacy and security protections for health information. This rule, which was implemented in 2013, enhances the original HIPAA regulations by addressing various aspects of patient data privacy and establishing stricter guidelines for how healthcare entities handle and protect individuals' health information. The Omnibus Rule extends the privacy requirements to business associates of covered entities, thus ensuring that both healthcare providers and their partners are held accountable for safeguarding patient data. It also provides individuals with greater rights regarding their health information, such as the ability to request restrictions on disclosures and the right to be notified in case of a data breach. Such measures are essential to maintaining patient trust and improving the overall integrity of health information systems.