What is a Covered Entity (CE)?

A Covered Entity (CE) refers specifically to an organization or individual that is subject to the regulations outlined in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regarding the use and dissemination of protected health information (PHI). This includes entities such as healthcare providers who transmit health information electronically in connection with a HIPAA transaction, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses.

The emphasis on an entity transmitting any health information in electronic form signifies its role in the handling and processing of PHI and the need for compliance with HIPAA's privacy and security regulations. As such, being a CE means that the entity must prioritize safeguarding patient information and adhere to strict guidelines to protect that information from unauthorized access or disclosure.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the definition of a Covered Entity. Managing health accounts, offering health education, or being a membership organization for healthcare professionals do not inherently involve the handling of PHI in relation to HIPAA regulations, which is central to the definition of a Covered Entity.