Final answer:
A patient can respond to a potential HIPAA rights violation by filing a complaint with the covered entity and the HHS Office for Civil Rights. The patient can also request their medical records to check for breaches of privacy or confidentiality.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient feels that their HIPAA rights have been violated, they can take several steps. First, they should file a complaint with the covered entity that they believe is responsible for the violation (e.g., a healthcare provider or insurer). This complaint should be made in writing, specifying the details of the alleged violation. Second, if they are not satisfied with the response or wish to take further action, the patient can file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR). This needs to be done within 180 days of the violation. Lastly, patients have the right to request their medical records to review them for inaccuracies as a result of a breach.
HIPAA violations should not be taken lightly as they involve the privacy and confidentiality of personal health information. The OCR enforces patient rights and ensures that complaints are thoroughly investigated. Filing complaints and understanding one's privacy rights are essential in protecting personal health information.