February 2013

Breaking Down the HIPAA Changes: Part 1 of 5

What Covered Entities and Business Associates Need to Do to Comply with the Final Rule

The long-awaited final omnibus rule (now found at 78 Fed. Reg. 5566 (Jan. 25, 2013)) implements modifications to the HIPAA regulations promulgated by the Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health Act (the HITECH Act) in 2009. The final rule becomes effective on March 26, 2013, and compliance with the final rule is required by September 23, 2013 -- unless a longer compliance period is otherwise indicated. What does that mean for HIPAA Covered Entities and Business Associates?

An in-depth summary of key modifications will be the subject of future e-alerts; however, the purpose of this e-alert is to provide a brief overview of key modifications to HIPAA made by the final rule and a list of suggested action items that HIPAA Covered Entities and Business Associates should take to comply with the final rule. This e-alert also discusses the changes to the Enforcement Rule, which sets forth the possible consequences a Covered Entity or Business Associate may face it they do not comply with the HIPAA regulations, as modified by the final rule.

[Click here to read the full e-Alert.]

SAVE THE DATE: As we previously mentioned, we will also be holding a webinar on the Final Rule on February 20, 2013. More information will be coming soon.

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