Make Sure You Understand Your Requirements
The Cures Act is a comprehensive piece of legislation, so hospitals are encouraged to do a deep dive into its many components. Doing so will apprise your organization of its exact responsibilities. In a broad sense, you will be required to:
- Ensure patients can affordably request their records
- Allow patients to choose from many different healthcare apps
- Deter information blocking while also protecting patient confidentiality
Identify All Possible Sources of Data
How are patient records currently kept at your organization? Can they easily be transferred electronically? Is data kept in hard copies as well as electronic ones? Performing an extensive audit of your data collection and retention systems is the first step to ensure interoperability, or the free flow of information.
Consider Current HIPAA Compliance Standards
One of the most challenging aspects of the Cures Act is balancing easy access to data with patient confidentiality. In some cases, your current HIPAA standards may counter the rules within the Cures Act. Healthcare organizations are encouraged to confer with their teams, including legal and IT departments, to see where they currently stand and what would need to change to maintain full
compliance.
If you have questions about compliance and are unsure how to proceed,
DrOwl Is here to help. Our healthcare app is designed to ensure optimum interoperability while also safeguarding patient confidentiality. App features like messaging and video visits are fully HIPAA-compliant, as are all data transmissions taking place within the app.
DrOwl is a technology that facilitates greater access to patient’s healthcare information, while also giving your organization the tools it needs to protect itself.