What can happen if a patient feels their privacy rights have been violated under HIPAA?

Under HIPAA, if a patient believes their privacy rights have been violated, they have a formal mechanism for recourse. The correct course of action is for the patient to file a complaint with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This process allows individuals to report potential violations of their privacy rights and seek an investigation into the matter.

The HHS has a dedicated Office for Civil Rights that manages complaints related to HIPAA. The intention behind this provision is to empower patients and ensure that their concerns about privacy and data security are addressed appropriately, thereby promoting trust in the healthcare system.

In contrast, options regarding fees, lacking recourse, or the requirement to accept violations without taking action do not align with the protections offered under HIPAA. The legislation is designed to give patients agency in protecting their privacy rights, and failing to provide these channels for complaint would undermine the purpose of HIPAA.