Rachel V. Rose, JD, MBA

With multiple reform programs and changes in reimbursement being considered, it might be time to look at new ways to mitigate the impacts at your practice.

A pair of recent court decisions further highlights the need for physicians to comply with the Anti-Kickback Statute and the Sunshine Act.

With more than 2,200 hospitals recently notified of reimbursement reductions by CMS, now is the time for physicians to watch those readmission rates.

Here's a look at what covered entities are under the HIPAA Omnibus Rule and where pharmacies that work with your medical practice fit in.

Discussing patient information outside of your practice and over the telephone can result in disclosure of protected health information (PHI).

A move to repeal the Medicare SGR moved another step forward with the goal of smaller pay raises in the near future and more emphasis on quality measures.

The insurer's recent settlement with HHS should be a reminder to physicians that a lack of HIPAA safeguards can result in serious issues for their practice.

The House will discuss a bill this week to reform the Medicare SGR formula and replace it with annual pay raises. Here's what it means for physicians.

Real Estate Investment Trusts could be a viable solution for healthcare providers seeking capitals. Here's a primer on what they are and what they could mean.

Collaborations between physicians and other healthcare entities can be beneficial …but they can also violate federal and state antitrust laws.

Two recent HIPAA violations, and a looming compliance date, mean now is the time to ensure privacy and security policies are in place at your medical practice.

Before joining a hospital or large health system, physicians should consider their potential partner's financing strategy.

The best way to approach all medical records in relation to HIPAA and the HITECH Act is the same as you do with patients: use universal precautions.

Three recent examples show how being compliant and meeting medical necessity standards are the key to avoiding fraud enforcement actions.

EHRs can indeed reduce costs and improve patient care, but they can also provide legal issues if the rules for their use are ignored.

A recent court case illustrates why physicians need to be vigilant in reporting incorrect claim submissions every time, all the time.

Here's why physicians may want to discuss proposed Medicaid cuts to hospitals with their employers sooner than later.

Failing to fully examine an EHR vendor may have significant financial consequences for your medical practice. Here's a recent example.

The physicians' oath not only predicts major federal statutes, but also reminds that a respectful team approach to healthcare is vital.

While the landscape of how healthcare fraud whistleblowers are perceived and rewarded is shifting, it is not a decision for to take lightly.

When considering HIPAA, physicians should include state law claims for inappropriate access to medical records.

Here's why physicians should set their alarms for August 1, 2013, for the beginning of disclosures under the Physician Payments Sunshine Act.

There's not always a direct correlation between an ICD-9 and ICD-10 code. So providers should take steps to mitigate risks with the conversion.

CMS has issued a proposed rule physicians should know about when it comes to Medicare Part A denials, a possible Part B solution, and their revenue cycle.

A recent Illinois court case claiming violation of the False Claims Act should be on the radar of all physicians when it comes to compliance.

In an age of mergers and partnerships, it is important for physicians to pay attention to investor bond ratings and reports.

Physicians need to establish an effective Enterprise Risk Management plan when assessing risk in relation to HIPAA and the HITECH Act.

A look at the HIPAA Omnibus Rule may also provide physicians with some ways to examine other compliance issues and impact revenues as well.

The new HIPAA Omnibus Rule includes heightened attention on business associate agreements. Here are some details your medical practice should know.

If your medical practice has contracts or affiliations with the military, you need to be aware of additional privacy regulations.