Earlier this year, the Department of Health and Human Services ("HHS") issued final omnibus regulations under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act ("HIPAA") (see the EmployNews article dated July 26 2013, which may be accessed here). The final regulations include significant changes that affect covered entities, including group health plans and the employers that sponsor such plans, as well as business associates. Covered entities and business associates generally should be prepared to implement and comply with the new rules beginning September 23, 2013.