HIPAA / Healthcare Industry

Healthcare facilities gather and manage volumes of critical patient information that, if lost or stolen, could result in patient identity theft and delayed care. In 1996, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA, prompted lawmakers to build a set of privacy laws governing the management and security of patient information.

HIPAA laws exist to maintain the integrity of all healthcare services by protecting patient privacy. As such, the consequences of  HIPAA violations can cripple a healthcare business for years. Some organizations never recover from their damaged reputation and the financial burdens associated with remediation and penalties.

The US healthcare industry is one of the most attractive targets for cybercrime worldwide. Any attack, like the recent ransomware strike on Universal Health Services, can freeze hundreds of providers and impact millions of patients. Complying with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is the first step you can take to avoid potentially crippling attacks, and understanding the HIPAA security rule is a key part of achieving compliance.

In recent decades, public health agencies and public schools have worked hand in glove, sharing health information about students in order to better understand the broader picture of teens’ overall health. In addition, schools have increasingly sought to give their students more and better health services. Seeing as schools may keep or request sensitive health information from the students or parents, it’s natural to wonder what laws cover the security and privacy of these documents. 

These days, there are two major privacy laws – HIPAA and FERPA – that may or may not cover a student’s health records. Naturally, whether they do or don’t depends on your particular situation. That said, this article will attempt to wade the convoluted mire, illuminating you as to the differences between FERPA vs. HIPAA. Keep reading to discover more! 

HIPAA guidelines have been shaping the healthcare industry since the late 1990s, yet many organizations still struggle to comply with their requirements. A common area of concern for covered entities is the protection of patients’ protected health information (PHI). Failing to safeguard this sensitive data can lead to serious consequences, including data breaches, identity theft, fraud, loss of patient trust, fines, and even legal action.

One of the main reasons for HIPAA non-compliance is human error. Employees may unintentionally expose PHI due to a lack of understanding, training, or awareness. While these mistakes are rarely malicious, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) does not accept ignorance as an excuse. That’s why it’s essential to ensure that all team members follow proper HIPAA guidelines for employees and understand their responsibilities in protecting patient information.

Learn more about our HIPAA guidelines for employees to strengthen compliance and protect your organization.