Updated FTC-HHS publication outlines privacy and security laws and rules that impact consumer health data

Ever wondered about the intersection of some of the health privacy and security-related laws and rules enforced by the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Health and Human Services? You’re not alone, which is why FTC and HHS have teamed up to update a joint publication – Collecting, Using, or Sharing Consumer Health Information? Look to HIPAA, the FTC Act, and the Health Breach Notification Rule  – that helps businesses learn more about their legal obligations.

Collecting, Using, or Sharing Consumer Health Information focuses on four primary sources:

• HHS’ Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA);
• HHS’ HIPAA Privacy, Security, and Breach Notification Rules;
• the FTC Act; and
• the FTC’s Health Breach Notification Rule.

The publication addresses some of the questions that may be on your mind. What entities are covered? (The answer may surprise you.) What do you have to do to maintain the privacy and security of consumers’ health information? What steps must you take if you experience a breach? Collecting, Using, or Sharing Consumer Health Information gives to-the-point advice and features links to more detailed guidance from the FTC and HHS.

In addition to the updated publication, check out the FTC-HHS Mobile Health App Interactive Tool. It’s a good starting point for app developers and other companies looking for the fundamentals.