What must a covered entity do in the event of a breach?

A covered entity, in the event of a breach, is required to notify affected individuals and report the breach to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This requirement stems from the HIPAA Breach Notification Rule, which explicitly outlines the steps that must be taken following a breach of unsecured protected health information (PHI).

The rationale behind this requirement is to ensure transparency and accountability regarding the handling of sensitive health information. By notifying affected individuals, the covered entity enables them to take protective measures, such as monitoring their health records and being aware of potential identity theft, thereby helping to mitigate harm. Reporting to HHS is crucial for regulatory oversight and allows the government to track breaches and take appropriate action if necessary.

This option reflects the accountability required of healthcare organizations to protect patient data and maintain trust in the healthcare system.