Requiring covered entities to post estimated fee schedules on their websites for access to records.For example, providing a digital copy of X-rays and CT scans and not a paper copy. Clarifying the form and format required for responding to individual’s request for their PHI.For example, covered entities will not be allowed to charge patients when accessing their record in person or via the Internet. Specifying when electronic PHI (ePHI) must be provided to the individual at no charge.But beware, your state law may be more stringent. Shortening covered entities’ required response time to no later than fifteen calendar days (from the current 30 days) with the opportunity for an extension of no more than 15 calendar days (from the current 30-day extension).Strengthening individuals’ rights to inspect their PHI in person, which includes allowing individuals to take notes or use other personal resources to view and capture images of their PHI.
Updates to the HIPAA Privacy Rule and Patient RightsĪt a high level, here are five components of the HIPAA update that we can expect to see: Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has extensive updates planned for the HIPAA Privacy Rule with expected release this year, all of which support the enhanced right of the patient to access their protected health information (PHI). These changes also intersect with HIPAA compliance and patient rights to access. Not yet ready for open note? The Act does allow for eight different exemptions. It’s also important to note that by the end of 2022, you must also be able to share your notes with the patient’s third-party application or app.
The deadline for compliance by provider and health systems was April 5, 2021. Under the Cures Act, it will now be up to you to have the capability to share eight defined categories of clinical notes and to not block electronic health information between health systems, apps, and devices.
On December 13, 2016, President Obama signed the 21st Century Cures Act which endures that patients have unrestrained access to their electronic health information, in a format that is “easy to understand, secure, and updated automatically.” What’s more, it may be time for you to seriously consider implementing and integrating a compatible tele-dentistry solution or patient portal in order to keep up with changing regulations and patient expectations. Most medical providers have already implemented this. Interoperability will be pivotal to the future of integrated healthcare in order for patient data to flow freely and securely between payers, providers, and patients. That’s because patient rights, data security, and digital transformations are mutating as quickly as the COVID variants.Īs the pandemic continues, reduce your risk of non-compliance by staying abreast of these two regulatory updates that intersect with HIPAA: Interoperability and Digital Transformations In case you weren’t aware, there are a number of HIPAA updates on the horizon.
Note to Reader: This blog is an excerpt of an article originally published on DentistryIQ.