Who is primarily involved in the enforcement of HIPAA privacy and security regulations?

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is primarily responsible for enforcing HIPAA privacy and security regulations. This department oversees the implementation and compliance of the law, ensuring that covered entities—such as healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses—adhere to the standards set forth regarding the protection of individuals’ health information.

HHS has established the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), which specifically handles the enforcement of HIPAA privacy and security rules, including investigating complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing guidance on HIPAA requirements. This central role underscores the HHS's authority in safeguarding patient privacy and ensuring that health information is handled securely.

Other entities mentioned, such as the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice, have different areas of focus and authority that do not overlap with the specific enforcement of HIPAA regulations, while the Office of the Secretary of Health is a component of HHS but not the primary enforcement body for HIPAA.