Health Information Management

HIPAA Q&A: Remote HIPAA training

HIPAA Weekly Advisor, March 15, 2010

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Q. Is HIPAA training via WebEx or a similar Internet format adequate for workforce members who work remotely, such as sales and account representatives? What type of documentation is necessary for training completed entirely in this manner? How should we document that a workforce member attended a training session? Is in-person HIPAA training preferable? If so, why?

A.
Remote HIPAA training using Internet-based, computer-based, or Internet meeting services (e.g., WebEx or GoToMeeting) is an acceptable form of workforce training. Reasonably ensure that any Internet-based learning tools include an audit log to document the beginning and end of training sessions and whether a workforce member completed the training.

Internet-based meeting services will generally provide a log that documents when a participant logs into and out of the training session. Each can be used to document that the workforce member attended and completed the training.

You should require workforce members to complete a test related to the material covered during training. Some online HIPAA training tools include this feature. Develop a test and require completion by participants who undergo training via the Internet to document knowledge retention and attendance.

Read more on HIPAA Update.

Editor’s note: Chris Apgar, CISSP, answered this question. This is not legal advice. Consult your attorney regarding legal matters.



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