HIPAA, the “Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996,” provides federal protection of patient health information. You will be receiving weekly messages to help you understand the topic and how it impacts your job. Today’s HIPAA message deals with the patient’s notice of privacy practices.
Question:
What is the Notice of Privacy Practices?
Answer:
Each patient will receive a Notice of Privacy Practices at his or her first direct treatment service delivery date. This document explains their rights related to privacy, as well as how health professionals may use their protected health information (PHI). Distribution of the notice will begin March 17, at the time of registration.
If you’re a manager, please ensure all of your employees are informed of the contents of these messages and how it applies to your work area. Some ways of sharing the information include discussions during staff meetings, printing and posting this message or asking your employees if they have any further questions.