For addressable HIPAA specifications, which statement is true?

For addressable HIPAA specifications, the correct statement is that the covered entity must conduct a risk assessment. This requirement is vital because the addressable specifications in HIPAA are designed to provide flexibility and reflect the unique circumstances of each covered entity. When a covered entity is faced with an addressable specification, it is expected to evaluate its specific situation, including its size, resources, and the risks to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of electronic protected health information (ePHI).

By conducting a risk assessment, the covered entity can assess whether it can reasonably implement the specification, whether it requires an alternative measure, or if it can accept the risks associated with not implementing the specification. The goal is to ensure that each covered entity takes appropriate steps to safeguard ePHI in a manner that fits its operational context.

Regarding the other statements, while it may seem that cost or size considerations could exempt certain entities from implementing addressable specifications, HIPAA does not explicitly allow for opting out of these requirements based purely on cost or size. Each entity is responsible for conducting a risk assessment and must justify their decisions based on that assessment, making the process more nuanced than simply waiving compliance due to limitations.