What rights do patients have under HIPAA regarding access to their records?

• A. The right to inspect and obtain copies of their health records.
• B. The right to sue the provider for any reason.
• C. The right to receive free medical services.
• D. The right to disclose records to any employer without consent.

Answer: (A)

Access to records is a fundamental right under the HIPAA Privacy Rule. Patients can inspect their health information and obtain copies of their records from a covered entity. The entity must respond in most cases within 30 days, with a possible one-time 30-day extension to 60 days if needed. Fees are allowed for copying and postage, but the patient can’t be charged just for searching. Records should be provided in the form or format requested if readily producible, including electronic copies, and the patient can have the copies sent to a designated recipient.

The other options don’t fit because HIPAA does not grant a blanket right to sue for any reason, does not guarantee free medical services, and does not allow disclosure of records to an employer without consent unless a specific exception or legal permission applies.