What agency enforces HIPAA regulations?

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is the agency responsible for enforcing HIPAA regulations. This enforcement includes safeguarding the privacy and security of protected health information (PHI) held by covered entities, which include healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses. The OCR ensures compliance with the Privacy Rule, Security Rule, and Breach Notification Rule established under HIPAA.

OCR carries out its enforcement responsibilities through various means, including conducting investigations into complaints, performing compliance reviews, and providing guidance and education to help entities adhere to HIPAA standards. This focus on civil rights in the health context aligns with the OCR's broader mission to enforce laws that prohibit discrimination and ensure access to healthcare and health information.

The other agencies listed do not have the authority to enforce HIPAA regulations as part of their primary functions. For instance, the CDC focuses on public health and disease control, the DOJ deals with legal prosecutions and enforcement of federal laws more broadly, while the FDA primarily oversees the safety and efficacy of food and drugs. Thus, the OCR is the designated body for HIPAA enforcement.