CHLP Submits Comments on HHS Proposed Change to HIPAA Privacy Rule (2021)

On May 6, 2021, CHLP submitted comments on the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) proposed changed to the HIPAA Privacy Rule. The comments outline our opposition to provisions that weaken the Privacy Rule and make it easier to share personal health care information with law enforcement.

"HHS is proposing the opposite of what is needed at this time. There are few, if any, legitimate bases for law enforcement action based on an individual’s health status, and the harmful consequences of disclosing personal health information to law enforcement officials are wide ranging and long lasting. HHS should be exploring how to increase barriers between health information and law enforcement authorities, rather than weaken them." said CHLP attorney Anne Kelsey.