Health IT, HIPAA, and the CMS Incentive Programs Blog
For physicians, hospitals, government agencies, and business associates
The QRUR and MIPS
The 2015 QRUR have been released. Practices can download them and learn about their potential payment adjustments in 2017. They can also begin to understand how to perform well in MIPS.
Preventing and Mitigating Ransomware Attacks
Recently, entire hospital networks have been shut down for time periods between 3 days and 3 weeks due to ransomware attacks. What can be done? Fortunately, there are established best practices which can prevent one of these attacks in the first place, or reduce the impact if a network is infected. We have some advice for you.
Meaningful Use in 2016 and 2017
Meaningful Use is still on for 2016 and 2017. Learn what Acting Administrator has said about Meaningful Use and the MACRA implementation.
2016: Hospitals targeted with Ransomware, patients harmed, losses incurred
Ransomware attacks are rampant throughout the healthcare industry, affecting a high percentage of organizations.
After a healthcare provider becomes a victim of ransomware, the response is typical – these organizations recognize that attacks could occur again, with impacts even more severe, and invest both in safeguards to prevent future attacks and protections to mitigate the impact should they occur.
Locky Ransomware Targets Healthcare organizations
Research shows that a massive spam campaign with “locky ransomware” has been targeting healthcare organizations. We review malware and countermeasures.
HIPAA Compliance with Google’s G Suite (Google Apps)
Eagle’s opinion is that the agreement meets the minimum requirements of a HIPAA BAA, and as such Google accepts the minimum liability in the event of a data breach which is to send you “applicable Breach notifications” via email in the event of a breach. Google will not indemnify you, reimburse you for your breach notification costs, or pay any other damages.
Ransomware Guidance from OCR
The Office of Civil Rights issued a Fact Sheet regarding Ransomware and HIPAA. During 2016, ransomware attacks have increased 300% and healthcare organizations are being targeted. This increase in threat activity increases the consequences of a weak security...
2016 is Biggest HIPAA Enforcement Year, $19 Million in Fines
While only in the 8th month of the year, 2016 is already the biggest HIPAA enforcement year as tallied by the dollar amount of fines, which exceed $19 Million. Here is a roundup of enforcement actions this year: Advocate Health Care, $5.55 Million. Advocate Health...
