Under HIPAA, what must be included in a breach notification?

Under HIPAA, a breach notification must include specific information to keep individuals informed about the implications of a breach of their health information. The inclusion of the nature of the information breached is crucial because it provides individuals with an understanding of what specific types of their personal health information may have been compromised. This could include details such as whether their medical records, Social Security numbers, or payment information were affected, which helps them assess the potential risk and take appropriate protective measures.

Knowing the nature of the information that was breached allows individuals to evaluate their need for further action, such as monitoring their accounts for fraudulent activity. This element is critical in ensuring that individuals are adequately informed about the breach, enabling them to protect themselves against potential identity theft or other consequences arising from the unauthorized disclosure of their health information.