HIPAA and nursing education: how to teach in a paranoid health care environment

Nursing faculty are affected by the paranoia that exists today as health care institutions individually interpret the Privacy Rule contained within the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). Because nursing students and faculty have been thrust into this environment, faculty must understand the Privacy Rule to ensure that both they and their students are in compliance. In this article, we provide a framework for faculty as they take a proactive leadership stance in relation to HIPAA. A multifaceted approach is necessary as faculty begin to navigate the challenges imposed by HIPAA. Strategies discussed include informing faculty and educating students, while developing a value system related to confidentiality issues and creating a safe environment for sharing information.