Law & Malpractice

How does a proposed data hub for newly-ensured patients affect your practice? Hint: It has to do with cybersecurity and HIPAA.

Sept. 23, 2013 is the date for compliance with the HIPAA Omnibus Final Rule. Updated business associate agreements and Notice of Privacy Practices are critical.

Sometimes learning from true stories of physicians who lost assets due to poor planning is the best way to kick start your own asset protection plan.

The NSA has examined communication nationwide in a way that makes it logical to conclude that messages improperly accessed PHI and, therefore, violated HIPAA.

Drug-seeking behavior has evolved into patients wanting new medications for older ones they've self-prescribed or demanding medications I don't feel they need.

Here's some simple guidance, from the OIG and a healthcare attorney, on suspicious sales pitches physicians might receive regarding a joint venture.

Noteworthy Items from Physicians Practice.

Do you know what the new "Two Midnight Rule" is? You should as it is critical for physicians to appreciate.

A bill proposed in Congress would significantly revise the current IOAS exception.

Don't wait until the final two weeks of the year to address legal and financial planning issues. Here's what physicians should focus on now.

State and federal agents are pouring through the books, looking for new and more elaborate ways to fine physicians. Here's a recent example from Oregon.

A chorus of healthcare voices is rising, urging CMS to delay the beginning of the Stage 2 requirements of the EHR Incentive Program.

There are three main changes to HIPAA coming Sept. 23, 2013, that medical practices need to know about. Here's what they are and what you should do.

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.

This week we take a look at this growing area of exposure for medical practices and some basic credentialing-compliance best practices.

A proposed rule by CMS would severely hamper PAs and other nonphysician providers from helping patients in need of care, sometimes immediately.

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

Finding ways to maintain an independent physician practice is tough. One area to target for cost savings and practice protection is insurance coverage.

Medical media personalities like Sanjay Gupta have stirred the marijuana debate, and raised questions among physicians. Now, some answers.

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.

Treating family members may seem like an easy and convenient option, but it can lead to big problems. Here's why.

A recent decision by HHS' Office of the Inspector General raises some interesting issues with ACOs participating in the Medicare Shared Savings Program.

You may not equate a HIPAA violation with a cybercrime, but if you have patient records, you need to secure and protect that information electronically.

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

This week we conclude our review of essential business and legal planning for physicians.