Protected Health Information Disclosed by Website Technology
Certain website technologies may be at risk of sharing protected health information. The Office of Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a bulletin warning that certain website tracking technologies may violate the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). Tracking technologies include but are not limited to cookies, […]
Telehealth Increases Productivity
The rise of telehealth has improved patient access to care along with increased provider productivity. The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted business as usual for healthcare providers and patients. Those needing routine care were reluctant to seek it for fear of exposing themselves to the virus. Patients with chronic conditions or illnesses were not seen by healthcare […]
Cybersecurity Threats to Health Systems
Cybersecurity threats against healthcare systems have increased since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic due to the adoption of new health technologies. During 2020, cyberattacks against health systems increased by forty-seven percent. Adopting stronger security measures will be essential to protecting patient data moving forward. Causes of Increased Cybersecurity Threats Healthcare providers faced a number […]
Restoring Physician-Patient Trust
Physician-patient trust has been deteriorating for years. There are different reasons for reduced levels of trust between patients and doctors. However, ensuring patients have confidence in their care providers and that doctors feel safe at work will be critical in recentering trust moving forward so patients can receive the highest possible level of care. Causes […]
OSHA Work Related Illnesses
OSHA mandates every employer keeps a record of every work related illness and injury. There are three forms: one describes the incident, the second describes the establishment, and the third describes the employee involved. Employers must keep these forms five years after the incident because it will be easier to update them. These forms are […]
How to Support LGBTQIA+ Youth
LGBTQIA+ people in the United States continue to face more challenges than ever. Different policy proposals and bills have fostered both a negative and damaging environment. These bills create a place full of shame, rather than a feeling of acceptance. This environment has a drastic effect on the mental and physical health of LGBTQIA+ people, […]
Informed Consent in Dental Practice
In dentistry, informed consent is necessary. If a dentist does not receive informed consent from a patient, they are subject to legal issues. Due to the increasing use of technology, patients are able to better understand their healthcare services. Thus, allowing patients to be more involved in the decision making of their treatment and be […]
The Dangers of Prescription Opioids
Opioids are prescribed for pain ranging from moderate to severe. Prescriptions for opioids are common following surgery, injury, or to treat health conditions. Opioids prescribed to treat chronic pain are becoming more common. This is problematic as opioids can be harmful and the long term effectiveness of opioids is unknown. The Problem With Prescription Opioids […]
Sexual Harassment Scenarios in the Workplace
Sexual harassment is prevalent in the workplace and has been reported at increasing rates throughout the year. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission “reveals that since 2010, more than 7,000 claims have been filed with the commission annually.” This sudden increase of reported sexual harassment cases has resulted in several social movements. For example, the Me […]
Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace
Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is effective in strengthening the workplace and providing equal opportunities for all employees. Diversity defines the workplace foundation and can include things ranging from class and gender to age and marital status. Whereas inclusion ensures equal opportunity and access to all resources. In order for diversity to be successful, […]
Emergency Action Plan Training for Healthcare Providers
Drafting an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and having trained, responsible individuals is important in ensuring the safety of employees. Preparation for emergencies is necessary because they often occur with no warning. In addition, employees must always understand their individual role and responsibility. Emergency Action Plans Development of an emergency action plan can vary depending […]
Circulation of Omicron COVID-19 Variant
The Omicron COVID-19 variant is quickly emerging around the world. The variant has been first identified in South Africa, but the origin and how long it has been circulating is still unknown. As of now, 23 countries have reported cases of this variant, and the numbers continue to rise. The United States has reported two […]