Which federal agency is responsible for enforcing HIPAA?

The correct answer is the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) because it is specifically designated as the federal agency responsible for enforcing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The OCR's role includes ensuring compliance with HIPAA's privacy and security rules, investigating complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and enforcing sanctions against those who violate HIPAA provisions. This agency oversees the implementation of patient rights related to their health information and ensures that covered entities—such as healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses—adhere to the regulations set forth in the law.

In contrast, the other agencies mentioned do not have a direct enforcement role regarding HIPAA. The Department of Justice (DOJ) handles criminal activities, including healthcare fraud, under other laws, while the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) focuses on consumer protection and competitive practices rather than healthcare privacy issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) primarily addresses public health concerns and does not enforce HIPAA regulations. Therefore, the appropriate agency for enforcing HIPAA is clearly the OCR within HHS.