Implementation Guide (IG): A document explaining the proper use of a standard for a given business purpose. IGs X12N HIPAA are the primary reference documents used by associated transaction implementation data and are included in HIPAA rules by reference. Health Compensation Room: an entity that processes or facilitates the processing of information received by another entity in a non-standard format or that does not contain standard data content in standard data items or a standard transaction, or that receives and processes a standard transaction from another entity or facilitates the processing of that information in non-standard content for a receiving entity. Accompanying manual: document prepared by each payer to indicate the data elements and conditional segments that must be used to conduct HIPAA-type transactions with that paying agency. The manual also outlines connectivity requirements and other useful information to support the implementation of HIPAA standard transactions. The accompanying guide is intended to complement, but not oppose, the requirements of the implementation guide. Compliance date: This is the date on which a covered company must meet a standard, implementation specification or modification. This is usually 24 months after the effective date of the corresponding final rule for most companies, but 36 months after the effective date for small health plans. In the event of a future change in standards, the compliance date would be at least 180 days after coming into force, but it may be longer for small health plans and complex changes.

American National Standards Institute (ANSI): an organization that accredits various standards committees and monitors their compliance with the open rule-setting process they must follow in order to qualify for the ANSI accreditation. HIPAA requires that the standards prescribed to it be developed by ANSI accredited organizations whenever feasible. administrative simplification: Title II, HIPAA subtitle F, which gives HHS the power to request the application of standards for the electronic exchange of health data; specify which sets of medical and administrative codes should be used in these standards; require the use of national identification systems for health care patients, providers, payers (or plans) and employers (or sponsors); and define the types of measures needed to protect the security and privacy of personal health information.