HIPAA, Battling Parents, and Minor’s Health Records

HIPAA and battling parents and minor records

Dealing with a minor’s health records can be a minefield when a child is from a blended family, or the parents have a contentious divorce ongoing. This gets especially sticky when you add in stepparents, grandparents, and situations where a minor controls all or a portion of their own records. Reviewing the basics can help […]

It’s Your Call – June 2024

sharps safety device

OSHA/Infection Control: Can you refuse to use a safety device for a sharp instrument on the basis that it costs too much? By law, you must review your sharps (any device that cuts or punctures the skin) every year. Any new safety devices that have the potential to be safer than what you are using must […]

Safeguarding Reproductive Health Privacy: A Roadmap to HIPAA Compliance

health privacy and reproductive health

In healthcare, privacy remains a fundamental concern, particularly regarding reproductive health care privacy. Recognizing the sensitivity of this area, recent modifications to the HIPAA Privacy Rule by both the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) signify a pivotal step towards bolstering privacy rights and autonomy for […]

It’s Your Call – May 2024

OSHA: Would OSHA inspect our office if a patient files a complaint about infection control? No. OSHA’s primary goal is to help employers and workers with compliance, reduce work hazards, and prevent injuries, illnesses, and deaths in the workplace. A quick fact sheet about OSHA inspections can be found at https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/factsheet-inspections.pdf.   HIPAA: What are […]

Introducing Our New Service: Exclusion Screening for Healthcare Compliance

exclusion screening for healthcare

As healthcare providers navigate the complex web of rules and regulations in compliance, one aspect that needs more attention is exclusion screening of those working with federally funded healthcare programs. We’re excited to announce the launch of our new service, Exclusion Screening, that will assist healthcare organizations in adherence to requirements such as the initial […]

Securing Healthcare: The Crucial Role of Cyber Insurance

cyber insurance

Safeguarding patient data is paramount amidst the looming danger of cyber threats. The necessity of cyber insurance has never been clearer, as its presence or absence can significantly impact the resilience of healthcare providers. Let’s explore the benefits of cyber insurance, the risks faced by those without it, and the effects it has on those […]

It’s Your Call – April 2024

HIPAA: As a small provider practice, can we afford cyber insurance? Investing in cyber insurance is crucial for small provider practices facing the growing threat of cyberattacks. While the cost may vary depending on factors like coverage level and practice size, the expense of cyber insurance is often far outweighed by the potential financial losses […]

Understanding the Role of a HIPAA Compliance Officer

Healthcare regulations are continuously changing making the role of a HIPAA Compliance Officer paramount. This individual serves as the guardian of patient data privacy and ensures that healthcare organizations adhere to the guidelines set forth by HIPAA. Their duties are diverse, ranging from program implementation to educational outreach, and their traits are crucial for effective […]

It’s Your Call – March 2024

OSHA/Infection Control: What is the appropriate cleaning method for heavy duty utility gloves? It is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use because the methods vary.  Here are some variations that you may find: Autoclavable up to 5 times Not autoclavable. Wash with mild soap and water. Hang to dry.   HIPAA: We are […]

It’s Your Call – February 2024

sanctions policies and OSHA COVID requirements

OSHA: We have an employee out with COVID-19. What is the current timeline for healthcare workers to return to work? The CDC guidance says that employees experiencing a mild to moderate case of COVID-19 who are not moderately to severely immunocompromised may return to work after 7 days have passed since symptoms first occurred (day […]