What is defined as individuals or entities that transmit protected health information under HIPAA?

The term that refers to individuals or entities that transmit protected health information under HIPAA is "Covered Entities." According to HIPAA regulations, covered entities primarily include healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses that engage in electronic transactions involving protected health information (PHI).

Covered entities are responsible for complying with HIPAA's privacy and security rules to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of PHI. This includes ensuring that information is only shared in a manner that complies with legal requirements and that patients' rights regarding their health information are respected.

In contrast, while business associates also play a role in handling protected health information, they do so on behalf of covered entities and are bound by separate agreements that hold them accountable for safeguarding that information. Regulatory agencies oversee compliance with HIPAA but do not themselves transmit PHI. Health Information Service Providers may offer services related to health information, but they do not necessarily fall under the definitions outlined in HIPAA as covered entities. Thus, the focus here is on the primary actors responsible for the transmission of PHI, which is clearly defined as covered entities.