What is the goal of the HITECH Act in relation to HIPAA?

The goal of the HITECH Act in relation to HIPAA is to promote the adoption of health information technology and enforce stricter data privacy and security provisions. The HITECH Act, enacted in 2009 as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, specifically aims to enhance the protection of health information by encouraging the meaningful use of electronic health records (EHRs) and by imposing stricter requirements for the protection of patient data.

By setting out these objectives, the HITECH Act strengthens HIPAA's existing data privacy and security provisions. It ensures that covered entities and business associates adopt enhanced measures to safeguard electronic health information, thereby improving patients' trust and privacy regarding their health data. The focus on technology adoption not only seeks to streamline healthcare processes but also enhances data security measures, which is critical in a digitized healthcare landscape.

While the other options could be related to broader healthcare goals, they do not capture the specific focus of the HITECH Act on technology adoption and the enforcement of privacy and security measures as a complement to HIPAA. For instance, while improving patient care through technology is a valid objective, it is not the primary legislative intent of the HITECH Act. Similarly, establishing new healthcare facilities or limiting healthcare