Impact of COVID-19 Privacy Policy Expiration
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) granted enforcement discretion for certain aspects of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) during the public health emergency. However, a recent announcement by the OCR declares the expiration of HIPAA enforcement discretion related […]
A Patient Privacy Breach Leads to Settlement
A hospital security patient privacy breach has resulted in a hefty settlement of $240,000 under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The incident highlights the importance of safeguarding sensitive medical records and the potential consequences of unauthorized access by hospital staff. The Patient Privacy Breach and Its Consequences According to a press release […]
Postpartum Medicaid Coverage Expanded in Many States
Several states have recently approved the extension of postpartum Medicaid coverage beyond the usual two-month period. This decision marks a significant milestone in addressing the critical needs of new mothers and underscores a growing recognition of the importance of comprehensive postpartum care. By providing extended Medicaid coverage, states are taking a proactive approach to safeguarding […]
Needlesticks Infections on the Rise
Needlesticks are causing patients to be infected with unwanted diseases. This raises concerns about how providers store needlesticks as well as protect patients and healthcare workers alike. It is important to do what is necessary to prevent needlestick infections and accidental contact with potentially dangerous needlesticks. Needlestick Infections Needlestick infections, also known as percutaneous injuries, […]
Government Authorities Respond to COVID-Related Misconduct
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented challenges and disruptions across the globe. Alongside the health crisis, there has been an alarming rise in fraud, waste, and abuse related to COVID-19 relief efforts. As governments and organizations allocate substantial resources to address the pandemic’s impact, unscrupulous individuals and entities have taken advantage of the situation. […]
Lawsuits Support the Importance of HIPAA Compliance for Healthcare Websites
Patients filed lawsuits claiming that healthcare providers were giving inaccurate information through their websites. As the digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly, it is becoming increasingly important to hold healthcare providers accountable for the accuracy of website information. Failing to do so can have a substantial impact on the well-being of consumers. Protecting User Well-being […]
DePuy Synthes, Inc. Agrees to Pay $9.75 Million to Settle Fraud Violations
DePuy Synthes recently agreed to pay $9.75 million to settle allegations that it paid kickbacks to healthcare providers committing fraud violations. The U.S. Department of Justice accused the company of violating the False Claims Act by paying kickbacks to physicians and hospitals in exchange for using their products. DePuy Synthes enticed healthcare providers to use […]
HIPAA Business Associates Requirements and Regulations
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) became law in 1996. It establishes a set of national standards to protect the privacy and security of individuals’ health information. The law applies to covered entities. These include healthcare providers, health plans, and healthcare clearinghouses, as well as their business associates. Business associates provide key services […]
New Treatment Cures HIV in New York Woman
In March 2023, researchers from Rockefeller University made a significant breakthrough in the fight against HIV/AIDS. They cured a New York woman of HIV using a new treatment method. This method modified her immune cells to resist the virus through gene therapy. This development offers hope for millions of people living with HIV/AIDS worldwide. This […]
Staffing Shortages in Hospitals
The COVID-19 pandemic has put immense pressure on the healthcare system, creating a shortage of healthcare workers and supplies. As a result, hospitals have been struggling to manage the surge in patients, leading to delays in treatments, long wait times, and compromised patient care. However, hospitals are deploying a variety of tactics to battle shortages […]
Healthcare Field Embracing Remote Work
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many industries to adapt to remote work, and the healthcare sector is no exception. In a recent article, Forbes Business Council member Stephanie Abbati highlights the benefits of embracing telehealth. Advantages of Remote Work One of the main advantages of remote work in healthcare is increased access to care. Patients […]
Sexual Harassment in Hospitals
Sexual harassment in the medical field occurs at all levels including executives, patients, and everyone in between. The #MeToo movement continues to raise awareness of harassment, including in the healthcare field, where many are taking action against abusive organizations and individuals. Individuals are making connections and empowering change throughout the industry. Rise in Cases of […]