Health Information Management

Q: What formal training courses or seminars are available to promote healthcare professionals' knowledge of HIPAA?

HIPAA Weekly Advisor, June 4, 2007

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A: There are a number of resources available, ranging from textbooks and frequently asked questions (FAQ) to seminars and conferences. When searching for an appropriate training course, first determine whether the source is trustworthy, the material is current, and the presenter is knowledgeable (if a seminar or conference).

HCPro, Inc., offers a number of training manuals that provide accurate information regarding HIPAA. HCPro also offers periodic audioconferences about HIPAA. See www.hcmarketplace.com for more information. Other reliable sources include:

The OCR and CMS also provide HIPAA guidance and maintain a search-based FAQ database. The key to increasing correct knowledge of HIPAA is to first read the rules and their preamble and then talk to other professionals in the business of HIPAA.

There are too many garage vendors out there who may provide HIPAA seminars or training material, but the material is inaccurate, incomplete, out-of-date, or includes some of the many HIPAA myths that still exist. Any good HIPAA professional should also pay close attention to state and other federal law, especially in the area of privacy, as more stringent laws preempt HIPAA.

Editor's note: Chris Apgar, president of Portland, OR-based Apgar & Associates, LLC, answered this question. This is not legal advice. Consult your attorney for legal matters.



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