In this lesson, we'll simply be recapping what you've learned in your ProHIPAA course and at the end, make you an offer that is perhaps too good to pass up.
In this course, you've learned what the HIPAA and HITECH laws are, who manages the laws, and who is required to comply. You've learned about covered entities, business associates, and more about PHI than you probably thought possible, and for very good reasons as you now know.
Pro Tip: It's important to note that both covered entities and business associates share in the responsibility to protect personal health information at all times. If you are a covered entity doing all you can to be HIPAA compliant, but you're working with a business associate who isn't, this still poses a significant problem, as all it takes is one weak link in the chain.
For this reason, it's important for all covered entities to ensure that each of their business associates is a trusted partner, has their best interest in mind at all times, and more importantly, is committed to protecting the health data of all of your customers and/or patients.
In this course, you've also learned what the value of PHI is on the black market ($700 when part of a larger identity package) and why cybercriminals want PHI. We've looked a little into areas where PHI can be compromised and even a few recent instances in which PHI was compromised.
It's critical to always protect PHI, not only for the safety and security of your customers and patients, but also for the legacy and operational integrity of your own business or organization. A data breach isn't just costly in terms of fines. It's also costly in terms of reputation and possible future revenue losses.
Through this leadership course, you've also learned about the responsibilities of a HIPAA Privacy Officer, a HIPAA Security Officer, and business associates. You've learned about the importance of business associate agreements (BAAs), why you are required to have regularly scheduled risk assessments, and why you need a customized Book of Evidence that includes all of your policies and procedures.
Knowing that Your Organization is HIPAA Compliant – Priceless!
If you don't feel confident in your business or organization's ability to become or remain HIPAA compliant, it pays to engage a trustworthy HIPAA compliance partner who can guide you through your HIPAA compliance journey.
Even though you've now learned what it takes to become HIPAA compliant, you may still need help getting there. And you certainly have a better understanding of the damage that could occur if your business or organization isn't compliant and suffers a data breach.
If you ever feel like you need further assistance, as in a HIPAA compliance guide who can navigate you through those muddy waters, contact us ProHIPAA.com or call us at 844-722-8898 to schedule your complimentary risk review.
Thank you again for choosing ProHIPAA. We are honored to help you become (and stay) HIPAA compliant. We look forward to serving you again in the future, because your legacy matters.