Which department regulates HIPAA as authorized by Congress?

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the correct answer because it is the federal agency designated by Congress to enforce the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HHS has established regulations and guidelines to ensure the privacy and security of individuals’ health information as mandated by HIPAA. The department oversees compliance, handles complaints, and can impose penalties for violations, thereby ensuring that covered entities maintain the confidentiality of patient information. Other departments, such as the Department of Education, Department of Justice, and Department of Labor, while involved in various aspects of public policy and regulation, do not have the specific authority or responsibility for enforcing HIPAA regulations. This distinct role of HHS emphasizes its importance in maintaining the standards set by HIPAA to protect patient privacy in healthcare settings.