Who oversees the enforcement of HIPAA compliance?

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is responsible for overseeing the enforcement of HIPAA compliance. This agency is dedicated to ensuring that individuals' health information is protected according to the standards set by HIPAA, which includes implementing and enforcing the Privacy Rule and the Security Rule. The OCR investigates complaints, conducts compliance reviews, and may impose civil monetary penalties for violations of HIPAA regulations. Its role is critical in safeguarding the confidentiality and security of health information, thereby ensuring that healthcare providers and other entities follow HIPAA rules.

The Department of Justice plays a role in enforcing laws related to health information but is not the primary agency for HIPAA compliance. The Federal Trade Commission focuses on consumer protection and antitrust issues, which falls outside the specific realm of HIPAA enforcement. The National Institute of Health primarily conducts medical research and is also not involved in HIPAA oversight. Thus, the correct answer highlights the specific agency that holds the responsibility for compliance and enforcement in relation to HIPAA regulations.