What does HIPAA require covered entities to do regarding patient rights?

The correct choice highlights a fundamental requirement of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which mandates that covered entities inform patients of their rights regarding their health information. This includes the right to access their medical records, inspect them, and obtain copies, thereby empowering individuals to be aware of and manage their own health information.

This requirement promotes transparency and fosters a sense of trust between patients and healthcare providers. By being informed about their rights, patients can better understand their health conditions, treatment options, and the handling of their personal health information.

In contrast, other choices do not align with HIPAA’s objectives. The notion of ensuring patients have no access to their records directly contradicts the law's purpose, which is to protect patient rights rather than restrict them. Similarly, dictating to patients what information they can view undermines the principle of patient autonomy that HIPAA supports. Lastly, limiting access solely to medical staff ignores the patients' rights and would not be compliant with HIPAA regulations that focus on patient empowerment and access.