What is the "right of access" under HIPAA?

The "right of access" under HIPAA specifically refers to an individual's entitlement to view and obtain copies of their Protected Health Information (PHI). This right empowers individuals to check their medical records and ensure that the information contained within them is accurate and complete. Access to PHI is crucial because it allows patients to be informed about their health status, treatment options, and the data being maintained by healthcare providers.

By having this right, individuals can identify any discrepancies or errors in their records, which can be critical for their health management. HIPAA mandates that covered entities, such as healthcare providers and health plans, comply with these access requests, ensuring transparency and accountability in the handling of sensitive health information.

This focus on access distinguishes it from other rights under HIPAA, such as the amendment of records, which involves making corrections rather than simply viewing information.