What does "retrospective research" under HIPAA refer to?

Retrospective research involves analyzing existing data that was collected in the past, often for the purpose of answering new research questions. Under HIPAA regulations, this type of research typically requires either authorization from the participants whose data is being used or a waiver of authorization, which must be obtained from an institutional review board (IRB) or equivalent entity. This requirement is crucial because it ensures that patient privacy is respected and that participants are informed about how their data will be used in research.

When considering the framework of HIPAA, retrospective research does not fall under the category of being entirely permissible without any conditions; rather, it has specific requirements for data use to protect individual privacy, thus reinforcing the need for appropriate permissions or waivers. Understanding this context is vital for conducting research ethically and legally within the healthcare field, particularly concerning sensitive patient information.