HIPAA

Delta Dental MOVEit Breach
Audits, Fines, HIPAA

Abyde Insights: Managing the Aftermath of the Delta Dental MOVEit Breach

December 18, 2023 Comments Off on Abyde Insights: Managing the Aftermath of the Delta Dental MOVEit Breach

December 18, 2023 In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, vigilance is key. Recently, Delta Dental of California faced the brunt of a cyberattack, highlighting the imperative need for robust security measures. At Abyde, we believe in keeping our community informed to fortify defenses against potential threats. Here’s a closer look at the Delta Dental MOVEit breach and insights on strengthening your cybersecurity posture. Understanding the Breach Delta Dental of California, an esteemed provider of dental insurance to 45 million individuals, fell victim to the Clop hacking group’s exploitation of a zero-day vulnerability in Progress Software’s MOVEit Transfer solution. This breach, affecting a staggering 6,928,932 dental plan members, underscores the critical importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding sensitive information. Timeline of Events The breach unfolded when Delta Dental identified an SQL injection vulnerability (CVE-2023-34362) in MOVEit Transfer on June 1, 2023. Despite Progress Software swiftly releasing an emergency patch on May 31, 2023, the Clop group had exploited the flaw between May 27 and May 30, 2023. The aftermath saw unauthorized access and data exfiltration from Delta Dental’s MOVEit server. Response and Analysis Delta Dental responded promptly, engaging third-party computer forensics experts to conduct a thorough analysis. The complexity of the breach required meticulous scrutiny, leading to the finalization of the affected individuals and data types on November 27, 2023. Notification letters commenced distribution on December 14, 2023. Protective Measures for Affected Individuals In an effort to mitigate the impact on affected individuals, Delta Dental has taken proactive steps. Those affected are being offered 24 months of complimentary credit monitoring and identity theft protection services. This measure aims to empower individuals to monitor and protect their personal information during this challenging time. Learning from the Incident While Delta Dental emphasized that this was a mass exploitation incident affecting numerous companies, the magnitude of the breach sets it apart. With nearly 7 million individuals affected, it stands as the third-largest healthcare MOVEit-related breach reported. HIPAA Compliance and Notification Delta Dental adhered to the HIPAA Breach Notification Rule, reporting the breach to the HHS’ Office for Civil Rights on September 6, 2023, within the stipulated 60-day timeframe. The intricate process of identifying affected individuals and data involves digital forensic and incident response providers, highlighting the complexities of incident response. At Abyde, we advocate for a proactive approach to cybersecurity and compliance. Regularly updating and patching software, conducting comprehensive risk assessments, and fostering a culture of compliance are crucial components of a resilient HIPAA compliance strategy. Abyde is here to guide you on your journey to enhanced security and privacy. Reach out to one of our experts today to learn more! Call 800.594.0883 or email info@abyde.com.

Henry Schein Data Breach
Cybersecurity, Fines, HIPAA

Dissecting the Henry Schein Data Breach: A Stark Reminder for Dentists to Prioritize HIPAA

December 7, 2023 Comments Off on Dissecting the Henry Schein Data Breach: A Stark Reminder for Dentists to Prioritize HIPAA

December 11, 2023 In October 2023, Henry Schein, a major dental supply distributor, suffered a significant data breach. The ransomware attack compromised sensitive information belonging to both patients and dental practices, including names, addresses, Social Security numbers, and financial information. This incident serves as a stark reminder for dentists of the importance of taking data security and compliance seriously. Key Takeaways from the Henry Schein Data Breach: Mitchell Rubinstein DMD, a practicing dentist and noted cybersecurity educator in New York City is hoping this is the wakeup call that dental professionals need to start taking cybersecurity and HIPAA seriously. “An important thing to learn from the Henry Schein breach is that everyone is vulnerable. They’re a multibillion dollar healthcare corporation with far greater resources than any dental practice. If they can fall victim to a cyberattack, then so can any of us.” He went on to add, “Having a plan in place to respond to a cyberattack is just as important as having a plan to prevent one.” What dentists can do to protect their practices: “The companies we do business with accumulate a great deal of information about us,” Dr. Rubinstein stated. “If that information is compromised in a cyberattack, it can result in several layers of harm, not only to us, but to our patients as well.” Abyde: Your Partner in Cybersecurity and Compliance Abyde understands the importance of data security and compliance for dental practices. We offer a comprehensive solution designed to help protect you from data breaches and audits while also helping you ensure HIPAA compliance. Our solution includes: By taking data security and compliance seriously, dentists can help prevent data breaches, protect their patients, and avoid legal ramifications. Let’s work together to create a safer environment for everyone involved in dental care.  Contact Abyde today to learn more about our HIPAA-compliant solutions and how we can help you protect your practice. Call Abyde! 800.594.0883 or Email Us info@abyde.com Additional Resources:The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) website on HIPAA: https://ocrportal.hhs.gov/

Hiring new staff in healthcare
Best Practices, HIPAA, OSHA

The Top Three Steps to Remain OSHA and HIPAA Compliant when Hiring New Employees

November 30, 2023 Comments Off on The Top Three Steps to Remain OSHA and HIPAA Compliant when Hiring New Employees

November 30, 2023 In the fast-paced realm of healthcare, where patient confidentiality and workplace safety are paramount, hiring new staff demands meticulous attention to HIPAA and OSHA compliance. From the moment a new employee steps through the door, it’s crucial to instill a culture of compliance. Here’s a breakdown of the top three steps a medical practice should take during the onboarding process to ensure their team members are well-versed in compliance. 1. Training: The Foundation of Compliance Training is the bedrock of a compliant workforce. Before the employee even starts to perform job duties, invest time and resources in comprehensive training sessions that focus on both HIPAA and OSHA regulations. Abyde’s employee training portal can guide the creation of tailored training materials, ensuring that employees receive relevant, up-to-date information. Ensure that the training covers the nuances of patient privacy, proper handling of medical records, and the essential safety protocols mandated by OSHA. This also includes making sure employees who work with specialized equipment like X-ray machines, MRIs and lasers are trained specifically on each device. Regular updates and refresher courses can be facilitated through Abyde’s user-friendly employee portal, maintaining a continuous learning environment. 2. Confidentiality Agreements: Protecting Patient Privacy Securing patient information is at the core of HIPAA compliance. Implementing confidentiality agreements is a vital step in ensuring that new hires understand the gravity of safeguarding sensitive data. Clearly outline expectations regarding the handling of patient records, communication protocols, and consequences for breaches. Abyde can assist in streamlining this process by providing dynamically generated confidentiality agreements. Once signed, these agreements should be securely stored and easily accessible for future reference, ensuring that both parties are held accountable. 3. Access to Policies and Procedures: Empowering Informed Decision-Making Granting new employees easy access to your organization’s policies and procedures is essential for fostering informed decision-making. Abyde’s platform facilitates seamless accessibility, allowing employees to review and familiarize themselves with compliance guidelines at their own pace. This access is not only crucial during the onboarding process but should be an ongoing resource. Regular updates to policies and procedures can be effortlessly communicated through Abyde’s platform, ensuring that your team remains aligned with the latest compliance standards. In conclusion, successfully onboarding a new employee in a medical practice requires a strategic approach to compliance. By prioritizing training, confidentiality agreements, and access to policies and procedures, organizations can create a robust foundation for a compliant and secure workplace. Abyde’s innovative solutions streamline these processes, empowering medical practices to navigate the complexities of HIPAA and OSHA compliance with confidence.Interested in seeing the Abyde solution in action? Click here to schedule a demo or call us at 1800-594-0883.

Saint Joseph's Medical Center HIPAA Fine
Fines, HIPAA

HIPAA Fine Announced: Medical Center Ignores Authorization Requirements for Media Release

November 20, 2023 Comments Off on HIPAA Fine Announced: Medical Center Ignores Authorization Requirements for Media Release

November 20, 2023 In recent news, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Office for Civil Rights (OCR) settled a HIPAA investigation with Saint Joseph’s Medical Center over the unauthorized disclosure of COVID-19 patients’ protected health information (ePHI) to a national media outlet. This incident underscores a critical lesson in patient privacy, prompting Abyde to emphasize the significance of obtaining patient authorization before releasing any ePHI or images. See, What Had Happened Was Saint Joseph’s Medical Center, a non-profit academic medical center in New York, faced potential violations of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) Privacy Rule. The center improperly disclosed sensitive patient information to a national media outlet without obtaining the necessary written authorization from the patients, leading to a settlement with the OCR. The Importance of Patient Authorization The OCR makes it clear that patients have the right to control the disclosure of their health information. This settlement highlights the need for healthcare providers to prioritize patient authorization before releasing any ePHI or images, particularly to the media. Abyde’s Take When undergoing medical treatment in medical facilities, patients should feel assured that their healthcare providers will not disclose their personal health information to the media without obtaining proper authorization. Abyde cannot stress enough the responsibility of healthcare providers in safeguarding patient privacy. Key Takeaways: Our Final Word The settlement with Saint Joseph’s Medical Center serves as a valuable lesson for healthcare providers everywhere. Abyde remains committed to supporting practices in navigating the complexities of HIPAA compliance, with a specific emphasis on the importance of obtaining patient authorization before disclosing any ePHI or images. To see why Abyde is considered the pre-eminent HIPAA compliance solution, click here to schedule a demo.

OSHA Compliance in Healthcare
Best Practices, OSHA, Partner News

OSHA Compliance in Healthcare: A Smart Investment for Your Practice

November 9, 2023 Comments Off on OSHA Compliance in Healthcare: A Smart Investment for Your Practice

November 9, 2023 The following blog was co-written with Abyde’s HR partner, HR for Health. If you would like more information on HR for Health, please click here to visit their website. As a practice owner or healthcare employer, it is essential to prioritize the safety and well-being of your employees. One effective way to achieve this is by providing your team with proper Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training. However, the cost of such training may deter some employers from investing in it. HR for Health team’s up with compliance partner Abyde to explore the nuances of OSHA training and the benefits of compensating your employees for their time spent training.  OSHA in Healthcare: Navigating the Compliance Maze OSHA is a federal agency that’s all about keeping workplaces safe and healthy. In the healthcare world, this translates to ensuring the safety of both employees and patients. OSHA sets the rules, regulations, and guidelines that healthcare providers must follow to maintain a safe working environment. Requirements for Healthcare Providers Healthcare providers must adhere to OSHA regulations to ensure the well-being of everyone in the facility. This involves a multitude of requirements, from infection control to safe handling of hazardous materials, to reducing workplace violence. Compliance with OSHA standards is not just a box to tick; it’s about safeguarding the lives and health of patients and employees. The Crucial Connection to Employee Training and Retention Now, here’s where it gets interesting. Effective training and compliance with OSHA regulations play a pivotal role in employee training and retention. When healthcare providers prioritize OSHA training, they signal a commitment to employee well-being. This commitment, in turn, results in a happier, healthier, and more loyal workforce. Investing in comprehensive OSHA training demonstrates that you value your employees’ safety. This not only creates a positive work culture but also significantly impacts employee retention. Employees who feel secure and well-cared for are more likely to stay with your healthcare practice, reducing turnover rates and the costly process of recruiting and training new staff. Additionally, by equipping your employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to work safely, you can significantly reduce the risk of incidents occurring on the job. Consequently, this can save your company money in the long run, as workplace accidents lead to expensive workers’ compensation claims and lost productivity. The Legal Perspective According to HR for Health, compensating employees for OSHA training is not only a wise business decision but may also be required by law. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers must pay employees for their time spent in training directly related to their job duties. Therefore, if you require employees to complete OSHA training as part of their responsibilities, you must compensate them for the time spent in training. On the flip side… Employers may choose to provide a different rate of pay for training, but it’s left up to employers to decide if their training falls under certain criteria to provide a different rate of pay versus their regular rate of pay. These are the criteria points that must be met: It is imperative that you clearly outline the alternate rate of pay in your employee handbook, which cannot be less than minimum wage. How Abyde Keeps You Compliant Abyde, a provider of HIPAA compliance solutions, emphasizes the importance of OSHA training for healthcare organizations. In addition to reducing the risk of workplace accidents, OSHA training helps healthcare providers comply with HIPAA regulations. By ensuring that employees are trained on proper handling and disposal of hazardous materials, healthcare organizations can avoid costly fines and penalties for non-compliance. Abyde’s key features include: For more information on Abyde and how they work with your healthcare practice, please visit https://abyde.com/.  Track Employee Training with HR for Health HR for Health is a comprehensive human resources platform designed specifically for healthcare professionals. Key training tracking features include: In conclusion, compensating employees for OSHA training is a wise investment for employers who prioritize the safety and well-being of their team members. Not only does it help prevent workplace accidents and injuries, but it also boosts employee morale and job satisfaction. As HR for Health and Abyde suggest, employers should be aware of their legal obligations and take steps to ensure that employees are properly compensated for their time spent in training.

Pediatric Patient Data and HIPAA
Best Practices, HIPAA

Safeguarding Pediatric Patient Data: A Must-Do Guide

November 8, 2023 Comments Off on Safeguarding Pediatric Patient Data: A Must-Do Guide

November 8, 2023 Imagine a bustling pediatric practice, filled with the laughter of kids. In this lively setting, protecting patient data may not be the first thing on your mind, but it’s as important as ensuring those precious smiles!  At Abyde, we’re all about ensuring the well-being of your little patients, and that begins with safeguarding their data. Let’s explore why this is crucial and how compliance and security play a vital role in keeping patient information safe. Why is Pediatric Patient Data So Important? The health records of children are a treasure trove of essential information, from vaccination records to allergies and growth charts. But medical data isn’t the only data that’s valuable – you’re also talking names, dates of birth, addresses and potentially  social security numbers. Securing this data is vital to guarantee a healthy future for your young patients. The Compliance Connection So, what’s compliance? Think of it as your guide to data security. Compliance means adhering to rules and regulations, ensuring patient data remains secure. HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) is one of these essential rules, setting the standards for protecting sensitive health information. The Role of Security Security acts as the guardian of patient data. It encompasses measures like secure passwords, firewalls, and encryption, shielding data against breaches and unauthorized access. However, there’s a crucial component: proper documentation. Without it, your security measures are like having a shield but no strategy. Documented policies and procedures are your roadmap for keeping data safe, outlining how data is accessed, stored, and shared. It’s More Than Just Locks and Keys Data security isn’t just about digital locks; it’s also about your staff’s training to protect this treasure. Training ensures that they handle patient data responsibly, whether it’s on paper or in a computer. Equally important is your ability to prove that you’re doing everything right. Regular audits and monitoring help you ensure that your data is well-protected. In Conclusion The secret to protecting pediatric patient data involves a blend of compliance, security, documented policies, and well-trained staff. When you get this recipe right, you become a healthcare hero in the pediatric world. Remember, every effort you invest in safeguarding patient data ensures more smiles on those adorable faces. And there’s no better way to implement and sustain mandatory compliance programs than with Abyde—the industry’s easiest and most comprehensive software. With Abyde, you’ll effortlessly manage your compliance needs and keep those little smiles sparkling and secure!

HHS Resources on Telehealth Privacy and Security
Cybersecurity, HIPAA, Legislation

Understanding the New HHS Resources on Telehealth Privacy and Security: A Guide for Healthcare Providers and Patients

October 19, 2023 Comments Off on Understanding the New HHS Resources on Telehealth Privacy and Security: A Guide for Healthcare Providers and Patients

October 20, 2023 The telehealth usage surge has revolutionized healthcare delivery, particularly amid the COVID-19 pandemic. While the technology offers numerous benefits, it also raises questions about the privacy and security of Protected Health Information (PHI). Addressing this, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights (OCR) recently released two essential resources to educate healthcare providers and patients. In this article, we delve into the key takeaways from these resources and discuss their implications for HIPAA compliance. What Has Been Released? OCR has issued two resource documents: For Healthcare Providers Although HIPAA doesn’t mandate healthcare providers to educate patients about the risks involved in telehealth, the new resource provides valuable guidelines for those who choose to do so. Topics covered include: For Patients Patients are provided with recommendations to protect and secure their health information, such as: Why Is This Important? “Telehealth is a wonderful tool that can increase patients’ access to health care and improve health care outcomes,” says OCR Director Melanie Fontes Rainer. By educating patients and providers about privacy and security risks, OCR aims to build confidence and encourage the responsible use of telehealth technologies. Practical Tips for Health Care Providers Recommendations for Patients Final Thoughts The newly released resources by OCR offer a comprehensive guideline for navigating telehealth’s privacy and security aspects. Healthcare providers should seize this opportunity to improve their practices and educate their patients, enhancing the telehealth experience. For more information on how to stay compliant with HIPAA and other regulations in the healthcare sector, feel free to contact Abyde, your trusted partner in HIPAA and OSHA Compliance.

Biggest Threat to HIPAA Compliance
Best Practices, HIPAA

Why Employee Negligence is the Biggest Threat to HIPAA Compliance

October 16, 2023 Comments Off on Why Employee Negligence is the Biggest Threat to HIPAA Compliance

October 16, 2023 Welcome to another edition of Abyde’s insights into the complex world of healthcare compliance. As HIPAA and OSHA compliance experts, we understand the numerous challenges healthcare providers face. Today, we’ll delve into a topic that doesn’t receive as much attention as it should: the role of employee negligence in undermining HIPAA compliance. While advanced cybersecurity measures and secure data storage are essential, human error remains the most significant threat to your organization’s HIPAA compliance. The Human Factor Employees are your front-line defense against breaches and violations. Whether it’s mishandling patient records, failing to encrypt sensitive data correctly, or clicking on phishing emails, the human element poses a unique set of challenges. According to a report by Cybersecurity Insiders, over 60% of organizations identify employee negligence as the most significant risk factor. Common Types of Negligence Inadequate Training Lack of proper training on HIPAA regulations and protocols is often the root cause of negligence. A well-trained workforce is crucial to minimizing errors. Poor Password Management Employees often use weak passwords or reuse passwords across platforms. The implementation of strong password protocols can prevent unauthorized access. Sharing Information One of the most common types of employee negligence is sharing sensitive patient data, whether intentionally or unintentionally. The HIPAA Privacy Rule clearly outlines the guidelines for sharing Protected Health Information (PHI). Consequences of Negligence Financial Penalties Failing to comply with HIPAA can result in hefty fines, ranging from $100 to $50,000 per violation, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Legal Repercussions Depending on the severity of the violation, legal action may be taken against the healthcare provider, leading to a damaged reputation and loss of trust. Data Breaches Negligence can lead to data breaches that may require public disclosure, further eroding patient trust and damaging your reputation. Mitigating the Risk Comprehensive Training Programs Regular and rigorous training can significantly reduce instances of employee negligence. Abyde’s HIPAA training solutions can offer a robust program designed to keep your staff informed and compliant. Technology Solutions Leverage technology to minimize the impact of human error. Software solutions like Abyde can provide real-time monitoring and alerts for any compliance issues. Regular Audits Frequent internal audits can identify potential areas of concern before they become major issues. For more on how to perform these audits, check out our resources section here. Final Thought While external threats are a concern, the biggest threat to HIPAA compliance often comes from within. By focusing on comprehensive training and leveraging technology, you can mitigate the risks posed by employee negligence. Trust Abyde to provide you with the tools and expertise to ensure that your organization remains compliant and secure. Contact us today for more information on how Abyde can assist with your HIPAA compliance needs.

MIPS and HIPAA
Best Practices, HIPAA

Attesting to MIPS? Don’t forget about the Security Risk Analysis

October 11, 2023 Comments Off on Attesting to MIPS? Don’t forget about the Security Risk Analysis

October 11, 2023 It’s your practice’s responsibility to get the SRA done, not your EHR The Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) is a Medicare program that rewards eligible clinicians and groups for providing high-quality, cost-effective care. MIPS is a value-based payment program, which means that it ties payments to performance on quality measures, promoting interoperability, improvement activities, and cost. Eye care practices are eligible to participate in MIPS, and they can earn financial incentives for performing well on the program’s measures. One of the most important measures in MIPS is the Security Risk Analysis (SRA). The SRA is a process that helps eye care practices identify and mitigate security risks to their patients’ protected health information (PHI). The SRA must be conducted annually, and MIPS-eligible clinicians must attest to completing an SRA in order to receive a score for the Promoting Interoperability performance category. There are many reasons why SRAs are important for eye care practices. First, SRAs help practices comply with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which requires covered entities to protect the privacy and security of PHI. Second, SRAs can help practices avoid costly and damaging data breaches. Data breaches can have a significant financial impact on eye care practices. In addition to the direct costs of responding to a breach, practices may also face lost revenue, reputational damage, and liability lawsuits. SRAs can help eye care practices to avoid data breaches by identifying and addressing security risks. The SRA process involves assessing the practice’s physical, technical, and administrative safeguards and implementing corrective actions to address any identified deficiencies. In addition to helping practices comply with HIPAA and avoid data breaches, SRAs can also help practices improve their overall security posture. By regularly conducting SRAs, practices can identify and address new security threats as they emerge. Eye care practices can conduct SRAs on their own, or they can hire a qualified third party to assist them. There are many resources available to help practices conduct SRAs, including the CMS website, the HIPAA Security Rule website, and the ONC website. Here are some tips for eye care practices conducting SRAs: By conducting regular SRAs, eye care practices can protect their patients’ PHI, avoid costly data breaches, and improve their overall security posture. Need help or have questions? Click here to schedule a complimentary compliance consultation with an expert today!

Ensure HIPAA Compliance
Best Practices, HIPAA

Your Patients Are Watching: Ensuring HIPAA Compliance in Medical Offices

October 6, 2023 Comments Off on Your Patients Are Watching: Ensuring HIPAA Compliance in Medical Offices

October 6, 2023 The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is not just a set of guidelines that medical practices must follow to avoid fines and penalties; it’s a standard for patient care. Patients are well-informed about the importance of data privacy and security in an increasingly digital world. They are vigilant and observant, carefully watching how medical offices manage their confidential information. Hence, maintaining HIPAA compliance is a regulatory necessity and a way to gain patient trust and satisfaction. Below are some tips and tricks to ensure you stay HIPAA compliant when patients are watching. Signs Your Patients Are Monitoring HIPAA Compliance Tips and Tricks for Ensuring HIPAA Compliance Clear Communication with Patients Train Your Staff Physical Environment Tech-Savvy Measures Documentation Patient Feedback HIPAA compliance is a shared responsibility between healthcare providers and their staff. When your patients see you taking steps to protect their privacy and uphold the law, it builds trust, which is priceless in healthcare. Keeping an eye on these elements will help you stay compliant and make your patients feel secure and respected. How Abyde Can Help Risk Analysis Abyde provides a thorough Risk Analysis that helps identify potential vulnerabilities in your healthcare practice. The software can pinpoint where compliance might fall short and recommend specific actions to remedy these issues. Staff Training Abyde offers built-in staff training modules aimed at making your team HIPAA-savvy. Your staff must know the ins and outs of HIPAA, and training them with Abyde ensures you’re covering all your bases. Real-time Monitoring One of the critical features of Abyde is its real-time monitoring capabilities. It can automatically track activities that may be non-compliant and send alerts so that corrective action can be taken immediately. Documentation and Reporting Compliance is also about being able to prove that you’re compliant. Abyde’s robust reporting capabilities offer comprehensive documentation that can be invaluable during audits or legal scrutiny. Automated Audits Regular audits are a must, and Abyde offers automated solutions for this. It can conduct regular audits without human intervention, saving you time and effort while ensuring compliance is always up to par. Tailored Solutions Every healthcare practice is unique, and Abyde understands this. Its software solutions can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your practice, making compliance more manageable and effective. Additional Resources for HIPAA Compliance Staying HIPAA compliant is not just a legal obligation but a promise of trust and quality that you make to your patients. Abyde can facilitate this process, ensuring you maintain the highest data privacy and security standards. By adhering to HIPAA regulations effectively with Abyde, you not only avoid penalties but also win the trust and loyalty of your patients.

Is your practice prepared for a HIPAA investigation? Get educated with our new eBook.

DOWNLOAD NOW
X