Name a primary function of the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in relation to HIPAA.

The primary function of the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in relation to HIPAA is to enforce HIPAA rules and investigate complaints. The OCR oversees compliance with HIPAA's Privacy and Security Rules, ensuring that covered entities—healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses—protect the privacy and security of individuals' health information. When individuals file complaints regarding potential violations of their privacy rights or security standards, the OCR investigates these complaints, determining whether a breach has occurred and if necessary, enforcing penalties or requiring corrective actions.

This enforcement role is critical because it not only holds entities accountable but also protects the rights of individuals regarding their health information. The OCR plays a vital part in ensuring that the intentions of HIPAA, which include safeguarding personal health information and ensuring patient privacy, are realized in practice.