Which of the following constitutes a violation of HIPAA?

Discussing patient information in a public space constitutes a violation of HIPAA because it breaches the confidentiality requirement mandated by the regulation. HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, is designed to protect a patient's protected health information (PHI) from unauthorized disclosure. When patient information is communicated in a public setting, it creates an opportunity for unauthorized individuals to overhear sensitive information, which is contrary to the privacy and security safeguards that HIPAA aims to uphold.

In contrast, allowing patients to access their own records is not only permissible but also a right granted by HIPAA, emphasizing patient engagement in their own health care. Shredding documents with PHI after they are no longer needed aligns with HIPAA's requirement for appropriate disposal of sensitive information to prevent breaches. Additionally, training staff on privacy regulations is a crucial aspect of compliance, ensuring that everyone handling PHI understands their responsibilities and the importance of maintaining confidentiality. These actions support the overarching goal of HIPAA to protect patient information and ensure its proper handling.