Law & Malpractice

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.

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.

Think carving out Medicare and Medicaid patients from your business arrangements makes you safe from federal fraud and abuse laws? Think again.

Not all group purchasing organizations are alike, so as with any possible Anti-Kickback Statute issue, each arrangement must be scrutinized carefully.

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 polar opposite of marijuana laws, waivers for accountable care acts are allowed at the federal level, but can run into problems in individual states.

At your wits end with one of your patients? Here's what to do before showing him the door.

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.

Physician practices must constantly review existing restrictive covenant provisions to ensure they are compliant with state law.

While EHR adoption continues to increase, there are significant hurdles left to overcome, and the healthcare industry has a long way to go to catch up.

In 2014, the Affordable Care Act takes full effect. In 2015, penalties begin for not using EHRs. So perhaps now is the time to take a serious look at the technology.

Addressing the privacy and safety concerns of mobile medicine should be as important as accessibility for today's medical providers.