Let’s be honest here; most OSHA and HIPAA healthcare Compliance Officers are chosen because they are the ones on the staff with the most time, and that’s usually the newest people. While this idea seems logical it can cause a lot of problems in the long run. There are drawbacks in choosing a compliance officer. […]
Numbers of new cases of COVID-19 infections are at the lowest they have been in months. In fact, many states, as well as counties, are easing restrictions such as mask mandates indoors. These decisions are based on new tools created by the CDC to reduce risk of exposure and possibly infection and to reduce the […]
OSHA: What are some other common airborne pathogens aside from covid-19 that our office should keep in mind? Chickenpox Mumps Measles Anthrax Diphtheria Meningitis Common cold/Whooping Cough Asperigillosis Tuberculosis (TB) If there is potential for exposures to airborne pathogens, employees must wear appropriate PPE such as N95 respirators or greater and restrict susceptible employees from […]
First impressions count. Do you know what is the first impression patients have of your practice? Does it include safety? Hopefully your office appearance says well-organized, efficient, and safety centered. As a challenge, the next time you enter your office, walk in the front door and visualize the space as a patient, potential new employee […]
Your practice has received a subpoena for client records. What do you need to do? Don’t panic. This is not unusual. There are several things you need to know up front. Read the entire subpoena carefully to determine who is asking for the information and, exactly what information you need to send. Never send more […]
OSHA: Has OSHA relaxed any of the covid-19 guidance for employers? No. Although the Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) has been withdrawn, OSHA is working towards a permanent regulatory solution and will enforce the general duty clause and general standards. Therefore, employers should continue to provide adequate protections against covid-19 for healthcare employees. This includes, but […]
Most OSHA inspections in healthcare practices are brought about by employee complaints and can be preventable. You may think that disgruntled ex-employees are doing the reporting. That does happen frequently, but OSHA is aware of these kinds of retaliatory complaints and weighs that factor into their determination on whether to send you a letter or […]
OSHA: What were the top Federal OSHA citations in healthcare during the pandemic? The penalties below were retrieved from OSHA’s webpage listing industry specific citations from October 2020 to September 2021. HIPAA: My co-worker is loud when he talks to patients. Does the HIPAA Privacy Rule say anything about talking to patients if one […]
Dealing with a minor’s medical records can be a minefield when a child is from a blended family or the parents have a contentious divorce going. Things get especially sticky when you add in stepparents and grandparents, and when a minor controls all or a portion of their own records. It’s a good time to […]
OSHA: What is the frequency for fit testing per OSHA? The OSHA regulations state the following: 1910.134(f)(2) The employer shall ensure that an employee using a tight-fitting facepiece respirator is fit tested prior to initial use of the respirator, whenever a different respirator facepiece (size, style, model or make) is used, and at least annually […]
