New Federal Rule Enhances Privacy Protections for Reproductive Health Care

The Biden administration has finalized a rule to safeguard the privacy of individuals seeking reproductive health services across state lines, amid ongoing legal challenges and state-level restrictions.

The new rule modifies HIPAA to protect sensitive health information related to reproductive care, including abortions and fertility treatments.
It prohibits health care providers and insurers from disclosing medical records for investigations or prosecutions related to reproductive health services.
The regulation aims to shield patients traveling between states with varying abortion laws, ensuring their medical data remains confidential.
Legal challenges are expected as the rule counters state efforts to restrict abortion access and enforce local laws.
The rule is part of broader efforts to maintain access to reproductive health care following the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade.