How to File a Complaint for a HIPAA Violation
HIPAA stands for The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act and it sets a national standard for electronic transfers of sensitive health information. HIPAA grants nationwide rights to anyone in the United States who wishes to see, copy and request to amend their own medical records. A facility may charge to provide copies of your records, but HIPAA sets limits on the fees. The first time a United States resident visits a medical facility, the facility is required to provide a notice explaining the HIPAA Privacy Rule and how a complaint may be filed with either the health care provider or the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Civil Rights.
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Instructions
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How to File a HIPAA Complaint
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Contact the health care provider's privacy officer to initiate the complaint process and create documentation of your complaint.
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If resolution was not attained through the health care provider's privacy officer, file your complaint with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) within 180 days of the HIPAA violation.
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The HHS may decide to investigate in order to resolve the issue informally. If HHS finds that a health care provider or organization is in violation of the HIPAA Privacy Rule, HHS may issue a civil fine up to a maximum of $50,000.
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Tips & Warnings
HIPAA mandates that a complainant cannot be denied treatment as a repercussion for filing.
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