What requirement must covered entities meet regarding data breach notifications?

The requirement for covered entities to notify the media if a data breach affects more than 500 individuals is grounded in the HIPAA Breach Notification Rule. This rule stipulates that when a breach of unsecured protected health information (PHI) occurs, and it affects 500 or more individuals, covered entities are obliged to notify prominent media outlets in the area where the affected individuals reside. The intent of this requirement is to ensure that the information reaches a broader audience, increasing the chances that those potentially impacted will be aware of the breach and can take appropriate measures to protect themselves.

This notification must occur without unreasonable delay, and no later than 60 days following the discovery of the breach. This requirement underscores the importance of transparency and public awareness in the wake of significant breaches, thus helping safeguard affected individuals.

The other options do not align correctly with HIPAA requirements. Notification to affected individuals is mandated within 60 days, not 30. The Office for Civil Rights must be notified if the breach affects 500 or more individuals, but this cannot replace the requirement of notifying media. Additionally, while law enforcement may need to be notified in specific circumstances, covered entities are not required to notify law enforcement before informing victims about a breach.