OCR wants feedback on HITECH security provisions, monetary penalties

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is seeking feedback on two components within the 2009 HITECH Act. The OCR wants to better understand how to support the healthcare industry in implementing recognized security practices and ensure that funds from OCR enforcement actions are appropriately distributed. The OCR is also seeking input on how settlement money should be distributed to individuals harmed by HIPAA violations. Comments can be submitted until June 6.