Which aspect of HIPAA allows patients to request a copy of their health records?

The aspect of HIPAA that allows patients to request a copy of their health records is rooted in the HIPAA Privacy Rule. This rule establishes standards for the protection of individuals' medical records and personal health information by ensuring their rights. Under the Privacy Rule, patients have the right to access their own health information, which includes the ability to request copies of their medical records from healthcare providers and health plans.

This right to access is crucial for ensuring that patients can review their health information, understand their medical history, and actively participate in their healthcare decisions. It also empowers patients to check the accuracy of their records and seek corrections when necessary, underscoring the importance of individual control over personal health information.

In contrast, the HIPAA Security Rule primarily focuses on protecting electronic health information through administrative, physical, and technical safeguards, but it does not specifically grant patients access rights. The Administrative Simplification provisions are focused on streamlining healthcare transactions and maintaining the privacy and security of health information, while the Breach Notification Rule outlines the requirements for notifying individuals and the government in the event of a data breach. None of these aspects directly govern the patient’s right to request copies of their health records, making the Privacy Rule the correct choice.