Why is it relevant to the practice of professional counseling?

What is HIPAA? Why is it relevant to the practice of professional counseling? What does it require?

This discussion question meets the following NASAC Standards:

47) Inform the client of his/her confidentiality rights, program procedures that safeguard them, and the exceptions imposed by statute.

110) Protect client rights to privacy and confidentiality in the preparation and handling of records, especially in relation to the communication of client information with third parties.