Final answer:
Under HIPAA, individuals have the right to access, inspect, and obtain a copy of their Protected Health Information. They can also request amendments to their health records. Covered entities must comply while ensuring the privacy and security of the PHI.
Step-by-step explanation:
As per HIPAA regulations, individuals have specific rights concerning their Protected Health Information (PHI). These rights include the ability to inspect and obtain a copy of their PHI. A healthcare entity must comply with a patient's request to access their PHI within 30 days (or 60 days if an extension is applicable). This access must include all records held by a covered entity, with some exceptions, such as psychotherapy notes or information complied in anticipation of, or for use in, a legal proceeding.
Individuals are also granted the right to request amendments to their PHI if they believe there is a mistake or if important information is missing. HIPAA-covered entities must take reasonable steps to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the PHI. However, they are not required to agree to the requested amendments, but they must provide a written denial containing the basis for the decision, and information about how the individual can file a statement of disagreement or complaint to the Department of Health and Human Services.
Moreover, HIPAA's Privacy Rule allows for the appropriate use and disclosure of PHI without individual authorization under certain circumstances, like for treatment, payment, or healthcare operations, while the Security Rule sets standards for securing electronic PHI to ensure it is kept confidential and protected against unauthorized access.