We have laws in this country to protect our personal information in banks, credit cards and other financial institutions. But the ability to ensure the privacy of our most personal information -- our health records -- is increasingly at risk. The growth of information technologies, the ability to link publicly accessible data bases, and information gathered from genetic testing have all endangered the privacy of our medical records.

On April 14, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) began implementing a patient privacy rule that will give patients greater access to their own medical records and more control over how that personal information is used while still receiving the highest quality care.

HHS announced that this new patient protection will be implemented to make sure:

• Doctors and hospitals have access to necessary medical information about a patient they are treating. Physicians can also consult with other doctors and specialists in order to make the most informed decisions possible about patient care and treatment.

• Patient care will be delivered in a timely and efficient manner and should not be held up by confusing requirements on consent forms. For example, pharmacists should be able to fill prescriptions over the phone and serve their customers in a timely and convenient way.

• And parents will have access to information about the health and well being of their children, including information about mental health, substance abuse or abortion.

Privacy is one of the cornerstones of living in a "free" society. I will continue working with my colleagues in Congress as well as those in the Bush Administration to see that your health records are safe and protected.