Who is responsible for enforcing HIPAA compliance?

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is primarily responsible for enforcing HIPAA compliance. This federal department oversees the implementation of health information privacy standards to protect patients' medical records and other personal health information. HHS has established the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), which specifically handles HIPAA enforcement. OCR conducts investigations into complaints, performs audits, and can impose penalties on covered entities that fail to comply with HIPAA regulations.

While other entities, such as state governments or law enforcement agencies, may play a role in aspects of healthcare and privacy laws, they do not have the primary enforcement responsibility for HIPAA compliance. Insurance companies, while they must comply with HIPAA regulations, do not enforce them; instead, they must adhere to the standards set forth by HHS. Therefore, the correct choice underscores the vital role of the Department of Health and Human Services in overseeing adherence to HIPAA legislation, ensuring that the rights of individuals regarding their health information are protected.