Washington, DC - As the FTC staff discussed at a seminar about consumer generated and controlled health data, people are turning to apps, devices, and websites to manage their own health information. Yesterday we talked about the contours of the compliance landscape. Especially when it comes to the sensitive subject of health data, one key takeaway is the importance that sound privacy and security practices can play in developing consumer confidence. Here are some more considerations if you or your clients are entering this burgeoning marketplace.

Washington, DC - The U.S. Department of State launched its fourth annual “Free the Press” campaign today as part of the Department’s efforts to honor the fundamental importance of a free and independent media in the days leading up to World Press Freedom Day on May 3.

Washington, DC - Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that Impax Laboratories Inc.’s acquisition of  CorePharma, LLC would likely be anticompetitive.

Washington, DC - The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced today the filing of a consent decree against Medtronic, Inc., and two of the company’s officers: S. Omar Ishrak and Thomas M. Tefft, for repeatedly failing to correct violations, related to the manufacture of Synchromed II Implantable Infusion Pump Systems, medical devices that deliver medication to treat primary or metastatic cancer, chronic pain and severe spasticity.

Washington, DC - With the help of innovative businesses, consumers are taking a more active role in managing their health information. How? Maybe it’s an app that monitors their exercise habits, a device that lets diabetics track glucose levels, or a site where patients with the same condition share information. In addition, people are starting to download their information into personal health records, partially because of regulatory initiatives promoting secure online access to medical data.

Washington, DC - In this week’s address, the President laid out why new, high-standards trade agreements are important for our economy, our businesses, our workers, and our values. These new trade deals are vital to middle-class economics - the idea that this country does best when everybody gets their fair shot, everybody does their fair share, and everybody plays by the same set of rules.