Which entity is responsible for administering HIPAA?

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the entity responsible for administering HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). HHS oversees the implementation of the regulations established under HIPAA, which are designed to protect the privacy and security of individuals' medical information. The department is tasked with enforcing compliance among healthcare providers, health plans, and other entities that handle protected health information (PHI).

HHS also provides guidance and support for those impacted by the regulations, ensuring that covered entities understand their obligations under HIPAA. This includes issuing rules and standards related to privacy, security, and breach notifications. While other agencies, like the Office of Civil Rights within HHS, handle specific aspects of enforcement related to civil rights and privacy, the overall administration, policy-making, and enforcement authority for HIPAA rests with HHS.