Consequences for HIPAA violations can often be quite harsh. If someone has breached the HIPAA privacy regulations – even without any malicious intent, civil penalties are applicable: $100 per violation for unawareness, a minimum of $1,000 for reasonable cause, a minimum of $10,000 if willful neglect is present and then rectified, and finally, a minimum of $50,000 for individuals who act with willful neglect and ignore the issue.
| Digital ExclusiveAOM Alliance Announces Endorsement for Reintroduction of the Federal Acupuncture Coverage Act
Speaking on behalf of the board of directors of the Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine Alliance, executive director Michael R. McCoy announced the Alliance's endorsement and support of the reintroduction of the Federal Acupuncture Coverage Act as proposed by Representative Maurice Hinchey of New York and a number of co-sponsors.
"This bill marks an important step forward in the recognition and acceptance of acupuncture as a key modality in the American health care system," said Dr. McCoy. "The board is gratified that our legislators have heard the growing demand of the public for access to our medicine and its safe and effective treatment modalities."
Dr. McCoy indicated that beyond endorsement, the Alliance will urge its members and friends to support the legislation by contacting their representatives and senators.