C427 Technology Applications in Healthcare Performance Assessment

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Introduction:
As a medical professor, it is important to provide comprehensive training and education to healthcare professionals regarding the rules and regulations governing patient confidentiality and data protection. The planning, organizing, directing, controlling (PODC) HIPAA training model is designed to ensure that hospital employees are well-versed in the appropriate handling and sharing of protected health information (PHI). In this assignment, we will discuss how to effectively teach hospital employees HIPAA regulations, appropriate types of PHI that can be shared between staff, penalties associated with breaching patient information, and how to complete an internal audit plan of all security measures meant to protect health information.

1. How would you teach hospital employees the rules and regulations regarding HIPAA?

To teach hospital employees the rules and regulations regarding HIPAA, a comprehensive training program should be developed. In this program, the employees will be taught about the purpose and intent of HIPAA, different types of PHI, who can access PHI, Rules and regulations for disclosing PHI, and penalties associated with breaching patient information. To ensure maximum learning, standard training materials such as PowerPoint presentations, videos demonstrating practical scenarios, case studies, and role-playing scenarios can be used. These tools can be used to create a positive learning experience and engage employees. Also, continuing workshops and refreshers are essential to maintain best practices and reduce security breaches.

a. Identify three appropriate types of PHI that can be shared between staff.

1. Information shared during patient consultations.

2. Patient information for the purposes of treatment and coordination of care.

3. Identifying information (name, address, and contact details) necessary for payment, billing, and invoicing.

b. Describe two penalties associated with breaching patient information.

1. There are potential civil penalties that can result in fines of up to $50,000 for each breach or violation.

2. Breaching PHI can also result in criminal penalties. In such cases, the offender can be fined and sentenced to jail time based on the severity of the breach.

2. Complete an internal audit plan of all security measures meant to protect health information.

A comprehensive internal audit plan will identify all the security measures in place to protect health information. The plan should evaluate personnel, physical, and technical safeguards. The following steps can be taken to complete an internal audit plan:

Step 1: Identify all the systems that store or transmit PHI. This includes electronic health records (EHRs), billing systems, and any other systems that contain patient information.

Step 2: Evaluate the physical security of the building where PHI is stored. This will include evaluating locks, cameras, and alarms.

Step 3: Assess the technical safeguards. This will include evaluating password protocols, encryption, and secure network access.

Step 4: Identify all personnel with access to PHI, including employees and contractors. Evaluate their training on HIPAA and proper handling of PHI.

Step 5: Evaluate the policies and procedures currently in place. These should cover data retention, access, and backups.

Step 6: Document the findings and create an action plan for areas that need improvement.

By completing an internal audit plan, it is possible to identify areas of vulnerability and implement necessary changes to protect PHI. Hospitals have to remain vigilant in such assessments to avoid HIPAA violations and maintain the privacy, security, and confidentiality of patient information.

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