decisionhealth Newsletters, Part B News - 2016 Issue 8 (August)
Negotiate for patient record access when rival practices close
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Article Overview
This practice management article discusses general approaches for handling patient records when a nearby or retiring practice closes, including limited asset purchase arrangements and custodial record storage agreements. It outlines why these arrangements may be relevant to practices seeking continuity of care and patient retention, and it highlights the need to consider legal, ethical, HIPAA, and malpractice insurance issues. The article is aimed at practice administrators, physicians, and health care counsel evaluating record-transfer arrangements.
Why This Topic Matters
When a practice closes, how patient records are handled can affect continuity of care, patient retention, legal compliance, and operational planning. Understanding the broad framework for record custody helps practices assess opportunities and risks before entering an agreement.
Article Sections
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Practice management overview
Introduces the business context for patient record access when a neighboring practice closes and explains why these arrangements may be of interest to receiving practices.
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How to take custody of records
Discusses custodial record arrangements, patient notification, retention considerations, and the need to coordinate with legal and insurance advisors.
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Mind HIPAA rules
Reviews general privacy and compliance considerations for handling transferred patient records, including the role of covered entities, business associates, and related agreements.
What You Will Learn
- How patient records may be handled when a practice closes
- What a custodial record arrangement is in broad terms
- Why patient notification and consent remain important
- What compliance areas should be reviewed before accepting record custody
- How record retention and privacy obligations can affect the arrangement
Who Should Read This
- Physicians
- Practice administrators
- Health care attorneys
- Compliance staff
- Medical office managers
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