What is a requirement for breach notification?

Written notification via 1st class mail to the last known address is a fundamental requirement for breach notification under laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and various state laws. This method ensures that individuals are informed in a reliable and secure manner about a data breach that may compromise their health information.

Using first-class mail allows the notification to reach the individuals directly and provides a tangible record, which is important for compliance purposes. This method also creates an opportunity for individuals to respond or take action based on the information provided in the notification. In the context of healthcare, where sensitive personal information is involved, it's crucial to maintain a high standard of communication to protect the privacy and security of affected individuals.

The other options, while they may appear convenient or helpful, do not meet the regulatory requirements for breach notifications. For instance, telephonic notification may not ensure that all individuals receive the message or have it in writing for their records. Notification solely upon request fails to proactively inform individuals who may be unaware of the breach. Lastly, while email notifications could be useful, they may not be secure or reliable for sensitive information, and not all individuals may have access to their emails or maintain updated email addresses. Therefore, being consistent with