It’s Your Call March 2021
OSHA We have a worker who tested positive for covid-19 and is in self-isolation. What is the time frame for healthcare workers to return to work after experiencing mild to moderate symptoms with suspected or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection? A symptom-based strategy is currently recommended which depends on the time of the initial symptom onset, whether […]
Protecting Your Cybersecurity
If you use an on-premises Microsoft Exchange Server, it is important to reach out to your IT Support immediately to be sure updates are installed to boost your cybersecurity and protect against recently discovered critical security vulnerabilities. The vulnerabilities allow an attacker to compromise your network and steal information, encrypt data for ransom, or even […]
Upcoming Changes to HIPAA Not Set in Stone
Last month HHS released a set of proposed upcoming changes to the HIPAA Privacy Rule. Anyone can review and submit comments about the proposed changes until March 22, 2021. After that, HHS will review all comments and make any changes they feel are necessary and issue a final rule that will require compliance. This can […]
It’s Your Call February 2021
OSHA: If an employee is exposed to Hepatitis C, how soon after the exposure can infection be detected? Acute infection is typically detected as early as 1-2 weeks using qualitative nucleic acid tests to determine the presence and levels of HCV RNA. HIPAA: Can patients be scheduled for COVID-19 vaccinations using an online or web-based […]
HIPAA: WHEN A MINOR BECOMES AN ADULT
When a minor becomes an adult, they become the owner of their medical record. Here are a couple of things to consider: When does a minor become an adult; What does the practice need to do to ensure proper handling of the record according to HIPAA. A minor can become an adult in several ways. […]
It’s your Call January 2021
OSHA: What is the current recommendation for Hepatitis C, baseline testing for the source patient? The CDC’s updated guidance provides two options. Option A would be the preferred method of testing the source patient for HCV RNA to determine if there is a current infection. Option B would be testing the source patient for hepatitis C […]
It’s Your Call December 2020
OSHA: Sars-Cov-2 (covid-19) is spread primarily through ____________. Fill in the blank. Answer: Respiratory droplet transmission with close contact (less than 6 feet). Airborne transmission can also occur in enclosed spaces, during prolonged exposure to respiratory droplets, and with inadequate ventilation. HIPAA: What is the 21st Century Cures Act? It is a rule that is […]
21st Century Cures Act and Patient Data
In March, the HHS Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) issued new rules to prevent health care providers, developers of certified health IT, and others in the healthcare industry from engaging in activities that block a patient’s access to their electronic health information. Building on the 21st Century Cures Act, these […]
STOP the Spread of Infection: What to Know
There are many processes that must be followed in order to stop the spread of infection and prevent a susceptible individual from becoming ill. The individual could be the patient or the worker. This year is particularly challenging as we face the beginning of the influenza season while dealing with the COVID 19 pandemic. In […]
A Simple Inventory List Can Reduce Risk
Keeping track of your equipment, office furniture, and similar items for financial purposes is a routine part of business. It is tough to protect something if you do not know where it is or that it even exists. That is why making an inventory list of devices and software your office owns and uses, particularly […]