What is the maximum time allowed for reporting breaches affecting less than 500 individuals?

The correct response highlights that breaches affecting less than 500 individuals must be reported no later than 60 days after their discovery. This requirement is established under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations, which mandate timely notification of breaches to ensure that impacted individuals are informed of potential risks related to their personal health information.

This 60-day timeline is intended to balance the need for prompt communication to affected individuals with the complexity of confirming the breach and gathering necessary information for an accurate report. By providing a clear deadline, it encourages organizations to proactively address breaches and take necessary steps to mitigate potential harm to individuals.

The other choices do not align with the established regulations and guidelines surrounding breach notification timelines, making the understanding of the proper timeline crucial for compliance in the healthcare sector.