What is a Business Associate under HIPAA?

A Business Associate under HIPAA refers specifically to a person or entity that performs services or functions on behalf of a covered entity, which involves the use or disclosure of Protected Health Information (PHI). This includes a variety of third-party services such as billing, data analysis, medical transcription, and more, where they may have access to PHI in order to carry out their duties.

The importance of this definition lies in the responsibility it places on covered entities and their Business Associates to ensure the privacy and security of patient information. Business Associates are required to have a written contract with the covered entity that outlines the permissible uses and disclosures of PHI, as well as safeguards to protect it.

In contrast to the other options, a healthcare provider who treats patients is a covered entity themselves, not a Business Associate. An individual who is a patient does not fit the definition as they are the subject of the PHI rather than the entity handling it. Lastly, a representative of a consumer advocacy group does not typically perform functions related to managing or handling PHI on behalf of a covered entity, which further clarifies why the third choice is the accurate response regarding the defined role of a Business Associate under HIPAA.