Which of the following is NOT an administrative requirement of HIPAA?

The correct answer is that providing free healthcare to all patients is not an administrative requirement of HIPAA. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) focuses primarily on the protection of patient health information (PHI) and establishes guidelines for the administration of that information, rather than on the financial aspects of healthcare delivery.

The appointment of a privacy official ensures that there is a designated individual responsible for overseeing compliance with HIPAA regulations. This role is crucial for maintaining the confidentiality of patient information.

Training employees on procedures is another administrative requirement because it ensures that all staff understand their responsibilities regarding the handling of PHI. Effective training helps to prevent accidental breaches and ensures that all employees are equipped to act in compliance with HIPAA.

Maintaining safeguards for PHI protection is also a key component of HIPAA's administrative requirements. Organizations are required to implement physical, technical, and administrative safeguards to protect patient information from unauthorized access or disclosure.

Providing free healthcare does not fall within the scope of HIPAA regulations, which are focused on privacy and security rather than on the provision or funding of healthcare services.