Proper Destruction of Protected Health Information: How to Comply With HIPAA Regulations
What are HIPAA’s Guidelines for Proper PHI Destruction?
Under the Privacy Rule, comprehensive training is mandatory for all staff, including volunteers, who are involved in the destruction of protected health information. It is important to note that HIPAA does not govern PHI retention policies as they are subject to state mandates. Therefore, staying informed about your state's regulations is essential to ensure the appropriate training and implementation of specific policies pertaining to PHI disposal and retention.
Acceptable Methods of Destruction for Personal Health Information
What happens if a HIPAA violation occurs?
The majority of HIPAA violations stem from negligence or lack of knowledge rather than intentional wrongdoing. To avoid penalties, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of your company's obligations and ensure the proper disposal of medical information.