Depending on what industry your business operates in, you may need to comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This act was set in place by the U.S. Congress in 1986 with the intent to protect the privacy of an individual patient and their personal health information. Your business needs to ensure that all information, computer networks and systems are in line with the criteria set forth in this particular act.
Unfortunately, even with this act in place, many businesses in the health and related industries are still not compliant. This in turn could potentially compromise the confidentiality, privacy and integrity of patient’s medical records and information.
Who Needs to Be HIPAA Compliant?
HIPAA compliance is required for anyone with access to Protected Health Information (PHI) or Electronic Protected Health Information (ePHI). This includes but is not limited to medical practices, health insurance companies and affiliates, IT consultants and affiliates, and attorneys.
Why Should Your Business Become HIPAA Compliant?
Aside from being in line with the law and protecting the privacy of your patients or clients, you need to ensure that your business is HIPAA compliant for the benefit of your business. If not, you may be forced to close due to lack of HIPAA compliance.
Recently, the Health and Human Services department has been ‘cracking down’ on businesses that do not conform to the criteria set forth by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. The department intends to conduct a multitude of planned audits to determine which businesses are in compliance with the act. Your business needs to comply with a variety of criteria in order to pass the audit.
In addition, there is rumor of a ‘whistle-blower’ program for patients who notice a direct HIPAA violation. These patients will be able to receive a reward if their report is deemed accurate.
If your business is found to be in violation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), you can expect to pay multiple fines as set by the Health and Human Services Department. Should your business be highly negligent, you could face a fine of up to $50,000 per violation, with an annual cap of $1.5 million.
Make Sure Your Network and Systems are Compliant
Computers, network, software, or other technology systems you have at your business are subject to audit. If this is all outdated or able to be easily compromised, you are in trouble. All reporting, records, information, billing, and other types of data must be secure and in line with the HIPAA act.
SysCorp Computer Services can work with you and your employees to ensure that every aspect of your business is 100% compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). For more information, please contact SysCorp Computer Services by calling 615.809.3687 or by filling out our online contact form.
Make Sure Your Facility and Physical Files are Compliant
HIPAA doesn’t just effect computer systems. The HIPAA Regulation brings concerns over access to facilities, server/data rooms, and any physical file that contain information regarding Protected Health Information (PHI). SysCorp can help your medical practice by evaluating your current processes and computer network and, if needed, take steps to move towards HIPAA compliance.
