Nitin Chhoda Discloses New Information on How an Integrated EMR Can Protect Patient Records
Denville, NJ (PRWEB) December 25, 2013 -- “The terms medical records, heath records and health information are used interchangeably, but they are very different,” said Chhoda. “A medical record contains personal and sensitive information compiled from different healthcare professionals. It is maintained by a single provider. Health information represents personally identifiable data, and inappropriate transmission of those files represents a breach of patient privacy as set forth in the HIPAA regulations.”
The significance of the specialized terms in the EMR era has eluded many professionals, many of whom still haven’t implemented an EMR in their clinic. The new vocabulary and overlapping of terms can be confusing, but understanding the terminology is essential if clinicians are to avoid costly fines and potential legal prosecution.
According to Chhoda, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) established national standards in the U.S. for the security and transmission of client data. The act restricts the amount of data medical professionals can utilize in marketing campaigns. He noted that exceptions are made when the data is used to protect the public health, for research, company mergers, or in the event of a national emergency.
Chhoda added that HIPAA regulations also require that patients be provided with a copy of their own records when requested in writing. It’s a safeguard that has resulted in frustration for many patients.
In an attempt to adhere to HIPAA specifications and avoid penalties, many clinics have adopted policies that prevent the release of information unless the client has specifically named themselves as a qualified recipient.
Have strict security is always a primary concern and Chhoda said that a physical therapy EMR is one the best ways to maintain privacy at every level. An integrated EMR system offers protection for every department within a practice and has the ability to notify clinicians immediately and automatically if a breach has occurred at another facility within the network.
Chhoda’s new information is designed to remove the fear and uncertainty associated with implementation of an EMR. The physical therapy software systems encompass multiple methods for safeguarding medical records, health records and personal identifiable patient information, along with an early warning system to assist physical therapists maintain HIPAA compliance.
Chhoda’s office can be reached by phone at 201-535-4475. For more information, visit the website at http://www.emrnews.com.
About Nitin Chhoda
Nitin Chhoda PT, DPT is a licensed physical therapist, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and an entrepreneur. He is the author of "Physical Therapy Marketing For The New Economy" and "Marketing for Physical Therapy Clinics" and is a prolific speaker, writer and creator of products and systems to streamline medical billing and coding, electronic medical records, health care practice management and marketing to increase referrals. He has been featured in numerous industry magazines, major radio and broadcast media, and is the founder of Referral Ignition training systems and the annual Private Practice Summit. Chhoda speaks extensively throughout the U.S., Canada and Asia. He is also the creator of the Therapy Newsletter and Clinical Contact, both web-based services to help private practices improve communication with patients, delivery better quality of care and boost patient retention.
Nitin Chhoda, EMR News, http://www.nitin360.com, +1 (201) 535-4475, [email protected]
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