HIPAA Final Rule…Still Waiting

Though the HIPAA Final Rules were expected to be out before the end of the month, it seems that the end is not yet in sight.  Last week, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) extended its review of the HIPAA Final Rules.  This review consisted of the HITECH updates, including the HIPAA Privacy and Security Rule, Enforcement and the Breach Notification Requirements.  It is unclear  how long the HIPAA Final Rules were extended, the OMB has the option of extending the final rule for thirty days or indefinitely.  Comments from HHS indicate that the HIPAA Final Rules should be out sometime this summer.  But for now, we must wait…