HIPAA regulations and recommendations require a designated ______ who must keep track of who has access to protected health information within a facility.

The correct choice is a privacy officer. This position is crucial in ensuring compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations, particularly concerning the protection of patients' private health information. The privacy officer's responsibilities include overseeing the implementation of privacy policies, ensuring that all employees understand the importance of safeguarding protected health information (PHI), and maintaining records of who accesses PHI within the facility. This role is essential in establishing a culture of privacy within healthcare organizations and in responding to any potential breaches of confidentiality or privacy violations. By designating a privacy officer, healthcare facilities can enhance their compliance with HIPAA and protect patients' rights effectively.