Which entity primarily regulates HIPAA?

The entity that primarily regulates HIPAA is the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). HHS is responsible for implementing and enforcing the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, which includes the Privacy Rule and the Security Rule that protect the confidentiality and security of patient health information. This department ensures compliance among covered entities, such as hospitals and healthcare providers, by providing guidance, oversight, and the necessary regulations that govern the handling of protected health information (PHI).

The other entities listed do not have a role in the enforcement or regulation of HIPAA. For example, the Department of Education focuses on education policies and student rights, while the Federal Trade Commission deals with consumer protection in business practices, not healthcare privacy. The Environmental Protection Agency is focused on environmental protection issues and regulations, which are unrelated to healthcare privacy laws. Therefore, the Department of Health and Human Services is the clear regulatory authority for HIPAA.