Which agency has enforcement authority for HIPAA privacy regulations?

The correct answer is the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The OCR has specific enforcement authority over the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) privacy regulations. This agency is responsible for ensuring that individuals' healthcare information is protected and that covered entities comply with the standards set forth in HIPAA.

OCR’s responsibilities include investigating complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing guidance and education on privacy rights and the obligations of covered entities under HIPAA. This role is vital for upholding the privacy and security of personal health information, making the OCR the designated agency for enforcing HIPAA privacy regulations.

Other agencies listed, while important in their respective functions, do not hold the enforcement authority specific to HIPAA privacy. For instance, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) is primarily concerned with preventing fraud and abuse within healthcare programs, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees food and drug safety, and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) focuses on workplace safety and health regulations. Thus, their roles do not extend to the enforcement of HIPAA regulations.