ED Coding & Reimbursement Alert - 2010 Issue 18
Patient Privacy: Outsourcing Security on Patient Privacy Could Be Helpful -- If You Know These Essential Truths
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Article Overview
This article explains how healthcare practices can think about outsourcing support for patient privacy and HIPAA-related privacy management. It focuses on the general role of consultants, the need for ongoing privacy upkeep, the importance of tailoring services to a practice’s size and workflow, and the use of additional monitoring or identity-protection services after a privacy incident. The piece is intended for practices, compliance staff, and others responsible for protecting patient information.
Why This Topic Matters
Patient privacy programs are not one-time projects, and outsourcing can help only when the relationship, scope, and follow-through are appropriate. This article helps readers understand the broad considerations involved in choosing outside support for HIPAA privacy efforts and related protection services.
Article Sections
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The Government Does Allow HIPAA Consultants
Introduces the general permissibility of using outside consultants for HIPAA privacy support. It frames the article’s focus on outsourced help for privacy management.
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HIPAA Requires Ongoing Upkeep
Discusses the continuing nature of privacy compliance work and why outside help does not replace internal responsibility. It emphasizes the need for ongoing attention after an initial review or setup.
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Be Wary of Cookie-Cutter Contracts
Addresses the importance of matching consultant services to a practice’s overall needs. It focuses on the broader issue of service scope and customization.
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Don't Forget the Scope of Identity Theft
Reviews the broad privacy and identity-risk context surrounding protected patient information. It highlights the kinds of information that may be exposed to theft concerns.
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Consider Tracking and Monitoring Services
Covers supplemental monitoring and recovery-oriented services that may be considered after a privacy incident or breach. It presents these as an added layer of protection.
What You Will Learn
- How outsourced HIPAA privacy support is framed in healthcare practice management
- Why privacy compliance and patient-information protection require ongoing attention
- What broad factors to consider when evaluating outside privacy consultants
- How monitoring and recovery services fit into a broader privacy-protection strategy
Who Should Read This
- Healthcare practices
- Compliance officers
- Privacy officers
- Medical office managers
- Billing and administrative staff
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