Sometimes, things that we’ve grown accustomed to need a major revision or makeover if they’re going to continue to properly operate. There has not been a major overhaul to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) rules since 2013, but that is about to change. On December 10, 2020, the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), proposing major changes to the HIPAA privacy rule. A final rule in this regard is expected to be published sometime this year, though the exact date and effective date have yet to be provided.
According to chief compliance officer (CCO) of Coronis Health, Bellinger Moody, there are several things to look for in the HIPAA overhaul. His summary is provided below.
Enhanced Patient Access to Health Information
Clearly, empowering patients with easier access to their health information is a priority for the OCR. The days of patients waiting weeks to receive their medical records are numbered. The proposed changes mandate that patients should have prompt electronic access to their health information. This is akin to online banking, where customers can instantly view their account statements, enhancing transparency and empowering patients to take charge of their health.
Strengthening Privacy and Security
Data security is undeniably the most critical compliance risk area today. With cybercrime at an all-time high, it is imperative that healthcare organizations implement stringent security measures. Just as homeowners invest in advanced security systems to protect their properties, we must adopt cutting-edge technologies like advanced encryption and multi-factor authentication to safeguard patient data. These measures are not just about compliance; they are about protecting the trust that our clients and patients place in us.
Sharing of Health Information Among Providers
In today’s interconnected world, seamless information sharing between healthcare providers is essential for optimal patient care. One of the objectives of interoperability is to eliminate so-called “data islands.” The proposed updates aim to standardize data formats and interoperability protocols, ensuring that critical health information flows smoothly between different systems. Think of it as different brands of smartphones using a common charging port. It simplifies the process and ensures compatibility, ultimately benefiting the patient through improved care coordination.
Reducing Administrative Burden
Healthcare compliance professionals have long grappled with the complexities of regulatory requirements. The proposed changes seek to alleviate this burden by automating compliance tasks and reducing redundant paperwork. This is similar to upgrading a manual checkout process to a self-service kiosk, making it faster and more efficient. By streamlining these processes, healthcare providers can focus more on patient care rather than administrative tasks.
Improved Breach Notification Requirements
Timely and effective communication in the event of a data breach is crucial. The proposed changes refine the rules on breach notifications, specifying more stringent timelines and clearer guidelines. Imagine receiving an instant alert on your phone when suspicious activity is detected on your credit card. Prompt notification allows for swift action, minimizing potential damage. Similarly, quick breach notifications in healthcare ensure that patients and authorities are informed without delay.
Addressing Emerging Technologies
The healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving with the advent of telehealth services, mobile health apps, and AI-driven tools. The proposed updates to HIPAA and the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (HITECH) aim to ensure these new technologies comply with existing standards without stifling innovation. It’s like updating traffic laws to safely integrate electric scooters on city streets. These regulations ensure that while we embrace new technologies, we do so responsibly, protecting patient privacy and security.
Here at Coronis Health, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of compliance and security. The proposed updates to HIPAA/HITECH are not just regulatory requirements; they are essential steps toward enhancing patient care and protecting sensitive health information. As we navigate these changes, we remain dedicated to providing top-notch service to our clients while safeguarding their patients’ data with the utmost integrity.
As we move forward, let’s remember that these changes are about more than just compliance. They are about trust, transparency and the future of healthcare.