Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA) Practice Exam

What should an organization do if it discovers a breach of PHI?

1. Ignore it if it seems minor

2. Report it to the affected individuals promptly

3. Wait until the next scheduled training to address it

4. Handle it internally without reporting

The correct answer is: Report it to the affected individuals promptly

Reporting a breach of Protected Health Information (PHI) to the affected individuals promptly is critical for maintaining compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations. When a breach occurs, affected individuals have the right to know that their personal health information may have been compromised. Prompt notification allows individuals to take protective actions to mitigate any potential harm that can arise from unauthorized access to their information, such as identity theft or fraud. Furthermore, timely reporting is not only a regulatory requirement but is also an important aspect of building trust with patients. It reflects the organization's commitment to transparency and accountability in its data handling practices. The breach notification must include specific information, such as a description of the breach, the types of PHI involved, and steps individuals can take to protect themselves. In addition to notifying affected individuals, organizations are also required to report certain breaches to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and may need to notify the media if the breach affects a significant number of individuals. Ignoring the breach, delaying the response, or handling it internally without notifying the individuals involved could result in significant legal repercussions and damage to the organization's reputation. Thus, prompt reporting not only aligns with HIPAA requirements but also safeguards the interests of those affected.