What is required from a covered entity to obtain an individual's signature indicating receipt of the Notice of Privacy Practices?

The correct answer is that a covered entity should make a best effort to obtain an individual's signature indicating receipt of the Notice of Privacy Practices. This requirement emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the individual acknowledges receiving the notice, which outlines how their protected health information (PHI) will be used and disclosed.

The "best effort" approach means that while it is ideal for the entity to secure a signed acknowledgment, there is an understanding that there may be circumstances where obtaining a signature is not feasible. For instance, if an individual refuses to sign the acknowledgment, the covered entity must still provide the Notice of Privacy Practices. The goal is to ensure individuals are informed about their privacy rights and the protections available to them regarding their health information, rather than strictly enforcing a signature requirement.

In contrast, formal requests, written consents, and oral agreements imply more stringent requirements for acknowledgement that do not align with the intent and flexibility allowed in the HIPAA regulations regarding the Notice of Privacy Practices. These options suggest an approach that is more rigid and potentially less accessible for individuals compared to the concept of making a best effort.