What is a requirement of HIPAA for employers with 20 or more employees?

The requirement for employers with 20 or more employees under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is related to the continuation of benefits for former employees. Specifically, HIPAA mandates that employers must allow employees who leave their job the option to continue their health insurance coverage for a limited period. This is often referred to as "continuation coverage," which is typically available under laws like COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act).

This provision is crucial as it ensures medical coverage is accessible even after employment ends, helping to protect individuals and their families from losing health insurance during transitions between jobs. It reflects the intent of HIPAA to secure the privacy and portability of health information while also providing necessary protections regarding health coverage.

The other choices do not align with HIPAA requirements. For example, while providing disability income plans is a benefit some employers may choose to offer, it is not mandated by HIPAA. Charging higher premiums or terminating coverage altogether upon job loss would contradict the protections HIPAA aims to support. Thus, the correct focus here is on allowing former employees to continue their insurance benefits.