The HIPAA Privacy and Security Rules are lengthy and complex and have long been a source of confusion.   The March 2013 implementation of the Final Omnibus Rule not only imposed many new requirements intended to protect the privacy and security of protected health information, but also expanded the reach of the HIPAA Rules to "Business Associates" as well as subcontractors that provide services to "Covered Entities," including health care providers, group health plans, health insurance companies, employers who participate in the administration of insurance or wellness programs, and health care clearinghouses.  Because Business Associates and their subcontractors may now be held directly liable for HIPAA violations, it is more important than ever for affected organizations to review and update their compliance programs to ensure the privacy of protected medical information.

The Hawaii Employers Council is proud to partner with George Hetherington and Laura Anderson with Torkildson, Katz, Moore, Hetherington & Harris to present a morning program at Dole Cannery providing the information you need to answer questions that commonly arise when health care providers and Business Associates attempt to apply the HIPAA Rules to their own operations.

For information, call Vicky Tasaka-Loando at 440-8888.