The Obama stimulus package stands to have a dramatic impact on health care in the U.S., from health care subsidies for unemployed workers to incentives to promote

the use of health information technology and encourage the use of the most-effective medical treatments. Kathy Poppitt, a healthcare attorney with Thompson & Knight in Austin, says security and privacy rules known as HIPAA also get a shot in the arm from the stimulus package. Language in the stimulus broadens the reach of criminal penalties while establishing a tiered system of civil money penalties, she says. "State attorneys general now will have the authority to bring suit in federal district court against providers and business associates who violate the regulations. To date, there has not been a cause of action allowing an individual to receive damages for a HIPAA violation." To interview Ms. Poppitt about the plan's provisions or HIPAA, contact Barry Pound at 800-559-4534 or barry@androvett.com.