In medical transcription service, confidentiality of patient details should be maintained at all stages, during transmission, usage and storage using appropriate security measures. Medical transcription companies protect patient health information by maintaining the security and confidentiality of medical records according to strict policies as well as rules and regulations set forth by HIPAA. Introduced in 1996, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) was designed with the intention to protect patient identities, and enable them better access to health insurance. It has laid down a set of rules and regulations which hospitals, physicians and healthcare providers must follow in order to provide their services appropriately, ensuring that there is no breach of confidentiality while maintaining patient medical records.
Measures Taken to Safeguard Confidentiality of Patient Information
HIPAA compliant medical transcription services are designed specifically for individual physicians, clinics, group practices, multi-specialty groups, medical office administrators, acute care facilities and other health care entities. In order to ensure confidentiality of patient details, a reliable medical transcription company will implement the following:
• File encryption software
• Firewall protection for all computers
• The latest antivirus protection with regular updates
• Secure, password protected email and FTP sites
• Regular Windows updates involving computer security
In order to prevent any unauthorized access, file encryption and password protection is very essential. Any digital audio files transferred via the internet for transcription must be encrypted. Similarly, emails must be encrypted if these carry any confidential information. With the help of secure FTP (file transfer) website, you can send encrypted information to the client. According to HIPAA standards, regular back-ups are also essential to protect patient confidentiality.
Medical transcription companies have transcription professionals who are certified and experienced to provide dedicated services. The entire workforce in the firm is provided training on the importance of maintaining security, privacy and confidentiality with regard to sensitive patient information. Each and every employee of the company is thoroughly screened and is made to sign a confidentiality agreement which makes clear that legal action will be taken against those who violate patient privacy.
It Is Important to Find a Company You Can Trust
Patient records are highly sensitive, critical and are more prone to illegal access. It is important to find a company you can trust, one which has been providing services for quite some time and has built up a good reputation. Such a medical transcription company will ensure confidentiality of your patient details. In addition, it will provide cost-effective services, lightening your workload and giving you more time to focus on patient care.
