Final answer:
HIPAA protects private health information, uncovers fraud and abuse, and maintains health care coverage during job changes or loss; 'd. all of the above answers are correct' is the right choice.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Health Insurance Portability & Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) serves multiple functions in the U.S. healthcare system. Firstly, it protects patient's private health information, ensuring that medical records and other health information provided to healthcare plans, doctors, hospitals and other health professionals are protected and kept confidential. Secondly, the act works to uncover fraud and abuse in the healthcare system, providing measures to fight deceitful practices. Lastly, HIPAA plays a role in ensuring health care coverage when workers change or lose jobs, helping to maintain insurance coverage continuity. Thus, the correct answer to the student's question is d. all of the above answers are correct.