Final answer:
HIPAA, established in 1996, includes the Security Rule which ensures the confidentiality of patient records. The ACA complements this by implementing cost control measures, including caps on administrative spending and the adoption of EMRs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), enacted in 1996, is focused on the protection of patient information and sets the standard for health data privacy and security. Specifically, the Security Rule is one of the five administrative simplification provisions within HIPAA, and it mandates businesses handling health information, such as insurance companies and healthcare providers, to preserve the confidentiality of patient records rigorously.
Moreover, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) contributes to the administrative simplification by imposing regulations to control healthcare costs. Caps on administrative expenses and the switch to electronic medical records (EMRs) are among the measures designed to streamline healthcare administration and ensure cost efficiency.