In a dental practice, confidentiality of the patient's health information is mandatory according to which rules?

The confidentiality of a patient's health information is primarily mandated by HIPAA regulations. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) sets national standards for the protection of individuals' medical records and other personal health information. It ensures that patients have rights over their health information, including the right to access their records and request corrections.

HIPAA's regulations apply to health care providers, health plans, and other entities that handle health information. These rules are designed to create a standard of confidentiality and security that all covered entities must comply with when it comes to handling patient data. This federal law establishes a framework for safeguarding patient information, ensuring that such information is disclosed only under permissible circumstances.

While other laws and guidelines, such as those from the ADA or state laws, may also address confidentiality and the handling of health information, HIPAA serves as the primary legal foundation governing the protection of patient health information on a national level.