Which agency is responsible for enforcing HIPAA compliance?

The agency responsible for enforcing HIPAA compliance is the Health and Human Services' Office for Civil Rights. This office plays a critical role in ensuring that covered entities and business associates comply with the privacy and security standards set forth under HIPAA. It has the authority to investigate complaints, conduct compliance reviews, and impose penalties for non-compliance.

This emphasis on enforcement by the Office for Civil Rights stems from its mission to protect individuals' rights to privacy regarding their health information and to ensure that healthcare providers meet legal obligations. Through its enforcement actions, the office helps maintain trust in the healthcare system by safeguarding the confidentiality of personal health information.

Other agencies listed, such as the Department of Justice and Federal Trade Commission, play different roles in law enforcement or consumer protection that do not specifically pertain to HIPAA enforcement. The mention of the Health Insurance Oversight Committee does not correspond to a recognized agency involved in HIPAA compliance, reinforcing that the Office for Civil Rights is indeed the central authority on these matters.