ARRA brought us an expanded version of HIPAA. Along with it came the clear message that if the last time you visited your HIPAA policies and procedures was April 15, 2005, you have a problem.
I have received several questions related to my “Standards of the month” column about history and physical (H&P) reports.
I thought it would be a good idea to clarify two specific issues these inquiries raised: 1) the requirements for H&P examinations for moderate sedation, and 2) allowing anesthesiologists to complete the update to the H&P report prior to surgery.
On July 8, HHS released a proposed rule to modify the HIPAA Privacy, Security, and Enforcement Rules, extending HIPAA compliance requirements to subcontractors of business associates (BA) and strengthening patient rights to health information privacy. The rule is available for viewing at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-16718.pdf.
According to a July HCPro survey of approximately 500 healthcare providers, 56% have already received medical record requests and 40% have had money recouped by a RAC.
