How long must HIPAA records be retained?

The requirement to retain HIPAA records for at least six years from the date of creation or the date when they last were in effect is firmly established under the HIPAA Privacy Rule. This duration ensures that healthcare providers and organizations maintain sufficient documentation to protect patients' privacy rights and to comply with any audits or investigations that may arise regarding their handling of protected health information (PHI).

Retaining records for this period allows entities to demonstrate compliance with HIPAA regulations, respond to potential patient requests, and handle any legal or regulatory inquiries effectively. This timeframe aligns with the need for accountability in the healthcare system, ensuring that individuals can access their health records and that organizations remain transparent about their practices concerning PHI.

While other options present different retention periods, they do not adhere to the established legal requirements set forth by HIPAA, thus reinforcing why the six-year retention period is the correct answer.