HIPAA Compliance Tips During the Holiday Season

HIPAA compliance tips

The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and spreading goodwill. However, for those working in healthcare, it’s also necessary to remain cautious about protecting sensitive patient information. As festivities begin and work environments shift, here are some key tips to uphold HIPAA compliance during this joyous time. Enhance Staff Training: Offer refresher courses […]

HIPAA Compliance in the Social Media Age

HIPAA and social media

Protecting patient privacy is the goal of HIPAA regulations for healthcare practices. While HIPAA regulations were established before the era of social media, the Privacy Rule safeguards against the unauthorized disclosure of patient health information (PHI) on these platforms. What is ePHI under HIPAA? Electronic PHI is any health information that is created, stored, transmitted, […]

It’s Your Call – November 2023

information blocking OIG

HIPAA: Who can be fined under the Information Blocking Rule and what are the Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) priorities? Only certain entities are currently subject to an OIG information blocking penalty. They are: Health IT developers of certified health IT Entities offering certified health IT Health information exchanges Health information networks These penalties began […]

Understanding and Managing Respiratory Illnesses

respiratory illness

Respiratory illness season is upon us. These viruses can take root in the nose, mouth, airway, and/or lungs. Illnesses that have been reported are Influenza (flu), Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and COVID-19. Common signs and symptoms among all these illnesses can range from fever, cough, runny/stuffy nose, chills, sore throat, and muscle/body aches. Some additional […]

Navigating Information Blocking: A Comprehensive Practice Guide

information blocking violations 2023

As Electronic Health Record (EHR) companies prepare for potential fines reaching up to $1 million regarding information blocking violations, healthcare practices and hospitals find themselves at the cusp of impending changes. Although no fines have been enforced for practices or hospitals yet, discussions regarding their imposition are actively underway. One aspect that practices may need […]

It’s Your Call – October 2023

HIPAA password policy OSHA transport containers

HIPAA: Why is a Password Policy Important? One of the critical aspects of achieving HIPAA compliance is enforcing a mandatory password policy. Failing to do so could have severe consequences that compromise patient privacy and expose healthcare entities to a range of other negative outcomes. 1. Vulnerability to Data Breaches: Without a stringent password policy […]

OSHA Requirements for Fire Prevention Plans, Fire Extinguishers, and Exit Routes

fire safety OSHA image

Fire safety regulations date back to 1895 when concerns arose from the lack of standards for sprinkler systems and plumbers had logistical challenges when they attempted to install or maintain these systems. Following this initial attempt, the need for fire safety regulations was stressed due to the deadly fire that broke out at the Illinois’ […]

The Importance of Cybersecurity for Healthcare Practices: A Necessity Not to be Overlooked

cybersecurity basics for healthcare practices

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, cybersecurity has emerged as a critical issue, particularly in the healthcare sector. Cybersecurity isn’t just an optional add-on but rather an essential component of a successful and compliant healthcare practice. Why is Cybersecurity Important in Healthcare? Healthcare practices handle a lot of sensitive and confidential data. Potential targets […]

HIPAA-Compliant Video Conferencing: Your Guide to Secure Healthcare Communications

video conferencing hipaa google meet, zoom, microsoft teams, facetime

Modern healthcare has evolved dramatically with the integration of technology. While digitization has indeed elevated patient care and broadened its accessibility, it has also brought along challenges, primarily concerning privacy and security. A significant part of this conversation involves the use of communication tools like video conferencing and their compliance with HIPAA. If you are […]

Prescribing Equality: A Guide to Non-Discriminatory Practices in Healthcare

Preventing Discrimination in Healthcare Course

Workplace discrimination is a real concern, even in healthcare. Recognizing and addressing it in medical and dental settings is a moral obligation for patient care and equality. Understanding Discrimination The definition of discrimination reveals that bias can manifest both overtly and subtly. Let’s break it down: Direct Discrimination: This is when someone is treated differently […]