What must be done if a breach affects 500 or more individuals?

When a breach affects 500 or more individuals, specific notification requirements must be followed under federal and state laws, particularly the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and California state law. Notifying patients in writing is crucial to ensure that affected individuals are informed about the breach, its implications, and the steps they can take to protect themselves from potential identity theft or other risks.

In addition to notifying the affected individuals, informing the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is a regulatory requirement. This notification allows HHS to monitor the breach's impact and implement any necessary oversight or changes to protect health information security nationwide.

This dual requirement emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in handling breaches of protected health information, prioritizing the rights and safety of patients.