What best describes the protection of health insurance records under Colorado law?

Under Colorado law, health insurance records are considered strictly confidential and secure. This confidentiality is vital because it protects the privacy rights of individuals concerning their health information. The law outlines specific guidelines on who can access these records, ensuring that only authorized individuals—such as healthcare providers directly involved in a patient's care or insurance personnel with a legitimate need—are permitted to view this sensitive information.

The emphasis on confidentiality helps safeguard individuals from potential misuse of their health data and supports trust in the healthcare system. As a result, healthcare providers and insurance companies are held to high standards regarding the handling and sharing of health records, which is why saying they are open to the public or freely accessible is incorrect. The law actively promotes the protection of health information, making it essential to respect individuals' privacy rights in all aspects of health insurance.