How long does a covered entity have to notify individuals after a breach of PHI?

A covered entity is required to notify individuals whose Protected Health Information (PHI) has been compromised due to a breach within 60 days of discovering that breach. This timeline is specified in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Breach Notification Rule, which was designed to ensure that individuals are informed promptly so they can take necessary protective measures against potential harm that might arise from the breach, such as identity theft or fraud.

The 60-day notification requirement emphasizes the urgency of addressing breaches of health information and aligns with the overarching principle of protecting individuals' privacy rights. Timely notification helps individuals assess whether they need to take action, such as monitoring their credit or changing passwords associated with their healthcare accounts.

Overall, this specific timeframe is a crucial compliance element for covered entities, reflecting the prioritization of patient safety and information privacy in healthcare practices.