What action must a covered entity take in the event of a HIPAA violation?

The correct action that a covered entity must take in the event of a HIPAA violation is to report the violation to the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and take appropriate corrective actions. This requirement is fundamental to ensuring compliance with the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules.

When a violation occurs, covered entities are responsible for investigating the breach and determining the extent of the violation. Reporting to the OCR is essential because it allows for oversight and accountability, ensuring that proper procedures are followed in protecting patient information. Additionally, taking corrective actions means that the entity must implement measures to mitigate any harm caused by the violation and prevent future occurrences, such as revising policies, providing employee training, or enhancing security measures. This comprehensive approach not only addresses the immediate issue but also contributes to the overall integrity of protected health information.

In contrast, ignoring the violation, only informing involved employees, or merely documenting the incident without further action would fail to address the serious nature of HIPAA violations and could lead to further legal ramifications and loss of trust from patients. The emphasis on reporting and correction reinforces the commitment of covered entities to uphold the privacy and security of health information.