Which entity has the jurisdiction to investigate complaints regarding the HIPAA privacy rule?

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is the designated entity responsible for enforcing the HIPAA Privacy Rule and investigating complaints related to it. Established under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the OCR's function includes ensuring compliance with the privacy protections that the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) established. When individuals believe their privacy rights have been violated, they can file complaints directly with the OCR, which has the authority to investigate these claims and take necessary enforcement actions.

While local health departments, healthcare providers, and state medical boards may deal with aspects of healthcare compliance and regulation, none of these entities possess the specific jurisdiction granted by federal law to interpret and enforce the regulations concerning patient privacy under HIPAA. This delineation underscores the critical role of the OCR in upholding and protecting individuals' rights to privacy in their healthcare information.