Through September 13, 2010, the Office for Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is accepting comments on its Proposed Rule containing modifications to the privacy standards, security standards and enforcement regulations under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA). In addition, while continuing to meet current requirements under HIPAA and the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH Act), covered entities and business associates should consider the effects of the proposed modifications on their operations if included in the final regulations expected at the end of the year.