Which rule under HIPAA focuses on the disclosure of confidential patient information?

The Privacy Rule under HIPAA is specifically designed to protect the confidentiality of individuals' health information. It establishes national standards for the protection of certain health information, allowing patients to have greater control over their personal health data. This rule outlines how healthcare providers, health plans, and other entities can use and disclose protected health information (PHI) while ensuring that patient rights are maintained.

The Privacy Rule mandates that healthcare entities must obtain patient consent before disclosing their medical information and must provide patients with access to their health records, enhancing transparency and fostering trust in healthcare relationships. This focus on confidentiality and the rights of patients is what makes the Privacy Rule a crucial aspect of HIPAA.