Markets Wired

In testimony before Congress today, the Federal Trade Commission outlined its work to protect consumers in the growing area of health information technology.

Testifying on behalf of the Commission, Jessica Rich, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, highlighted the FTC’s efforts to protect the privacy and data security of consumer health information, particularly in areas where health information is being collected, used, and shared outside of doctors’ offices or other traditional medical contexts.

The testimony before the Subcommittees on Information Technology and Health, Benefits and Administrative Rules of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform provided background on FTC law enforcement efforts, policy work and consumer and business education programs related to health information technology.

Specifically, the testimony highlighted a number of cases brought by the Commission using its authority under the FTC Act, including against a medical billing company that deceived consumers about how information collected from them would be used, as well as cases relating to the unlawful data security practices of companies that manage consumers’ sensitive health information.

The testimony noted various policy initiatives designed to promote privacy and data security in the health information technology area, including an FTC seminar on consumer generated health information, a staff report on the Internet of Things, and collaboration with other federal agencies on policy initiatives related to health information technology issues.

In addition, the testimony highlighted the Commission’s ongoing efforts to provide education to consumers and businesses about issues in the health information technology area, including customized advice for victims of medical identity theft, and work to provide businesses with useful guidance on how to reduce security risks by starting with smart data security practices.

The Commission vote approving the testimony and its inclusion in the formal record was 4-0.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition, and protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about consumer topics and file a consumer complaint online or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357).  Like the FTC on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, read our blogs and subscribe to press releases for the latest FTC news and resources.