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 […]

Vishing Scams and HIPAA: Protecting Personal Health Information from Phone-Based Threats

vishing scams and HIPAA

Criminals continuously devise new methods to exploit personal information for financial gain. One such method is vishing, a form of phishing that targets individuals through phone calls. Vishing scams pose a significant threat to the security and privacy of personal health information (PHI), making it crucial for healthcare organizations to understand and mitigate these risks. […]

It’s Your Call – September 2023

HIPAA: What is the difference between Phishing, Vishing, and Smishing? Phishing, vishing, and smishing are all types of cybercrimes that involve social engineering techniques to deceive individuals and gain unauthorized access to personal information, such as passwords, credit card details, or financial data. While they share similarities, each term refers to a specific method used […]

It’s Your Call – August 2023

HIPAA compliance and social media

HIPAA: How do I ensure HIPAA Compliance in patient communication on social media direct messaging? Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn have become powerful tools for healthcare organizations to engage with patients and provide valuable health-related information. However, healthcare professionals must exercise caution when responding to patient private messages on these […]

HIPAA and Online Reviews: What Your Practice Needs to Know

HIPAA online reviews

A digital presence is essential for maintaining a thriving business, and healthcare practices are no exception. For patients seeking a healthcare provider, they use search engines, your website, and online review sites to understand more about you and your practice. Ninety-three percent of patients consider online reviews in their decision-making process of finding a new […]

Protecting Privacy: Lessons from the OCR-Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital Snooping Settlement

privacy protection

In a digital era where personal information is vulnerable to cyber threats, privacy protection has become more critical than ever. A recent settlement between the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital in Washington state highlights the importance of safeguarding sensitive data. We explore the key details of the settlement and provides […]

It’s Your Call – April 2023

safety data sheet

OSHA: If our office has the current Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for a product, do we have to keep the old one? No, the old SDS can be discarded if the original formulation is the same. When the formulation is different, the employer must keep both the old and current SDS for 30 years.   […]

HIPAA, PHI, and Law Enforcement in 2023

HIPAA, protected health information (PHI), and law enforcement 2023

When can you share protected health information (PHI) with law enforcement? There are certain circumstances when the law allows you to share PHI. You should always keep the “minimum necessary” rule in mind whenever you are giving out information. New HIPAA rules proposed by Health and Human Services (HHS). On April 11, 2023, the HHS […]

HIPAA and the letter excusing a return to the workplace

HIPAA return to workplace

With the pandemic drawing to a close in May, many employers are requiring their workers to return to the physical workplace. Patients that are afraid that their medical situation makes that return too risky at this time are requesting a letter from the doctor preventing that return.  If the doctor believes this to be valid, […]