What law was enacted to promote health information technology and improve healthcare quality?

The choice of HITECH as the correct answer reflects its specific purpose and impact on health information technology. The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act was enacted in 2009 as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Its primary aim was to promote the adoption and meaningful use of health information technology, particularly electronic health records (EHRs). By providing financial incentives to healthcare providers for the implementation and effective use of EHRs, HITECH sought to improve the overall quality of healthcare while ensuring that patient information remained secure and confidential.

In contrast, HIPAA, while related to healthcare information, primarily focuses on the privacy and security of patient data rather than promoting the technology used to manage that data. FERPA pertains to the protection of student education records and is not relevant to healthcare information technology. The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) addresses health insurance coverage and healthcare reform but does not specifically target the enhancement of health information technology.

HITECH's emphasis on health IT and quality improvement distinguishes it as the law designed to specifically address these areas within the healthcare system.