There are many groups and initiatives on the national scene addressing privacy and HIT. Below are links to some resources that address privacy and HIT. Government Accountability Office (GAO): “Health Information Technology: Early Efforts Initiated but Comprehensive Privacy Approach Needed for National Strategy” (January 2007) This report summarizes some of the national efforts and privacy and highlights the need for a coordinated approach. Health and Human Services Privacy & Security Page Outlines state and federal activities and provides additional resources on privacy and security. National Committee on Vital and Health Statistics (NCVHS) Advises Secretary of Health and Human Services on Privacy issues. Recent reports include “Enhanced Protections for Uses of Health Data: A Stewardship Framework for ‘Secondary Uses’ of Electronically Collected and Transmitted Health Data” (12/19/2007) and “Recommendations regarding Privacy and Confidentiality in the Nationwide Health Information Network” (6/22/2006). Patient Privacy Rights Private group dedicated to ensuring Americans control all access to their health records. HIPAA Security Rule: Frequently asked questions regarding encryption of personal health information (AMA) FAQ from the American Medical Association on recent changes to the HIPAA Security Rule as it pertains to encryption. A Delicate Balance: Behavioral Health, Patient Privacy and the Need to Know (CHCF) Policy paper with legal analysis of federal and state laws pertaining to privacy of mental health information, as well as three illustrative scenarios. Check back for more articles and resources on privacy and Electronic Health Records.