Telemedicine or telehealth involves using technologies like video conferencing to provide clinical health services remotely. The concept became especially important in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, as it allowed patients to access care while social distancing. Yet, providing virtual care presents new compliance challenges under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Health care providers must take proper precautions to protect private health information transmitted online or via mobile apps. This includes implementing technical and physical safeguards to secure electronic protected health information (ePHI).
To offer telehealth services, both public and private practices need the right technology infrastructure in place. This includes high-speed internet, video conferencing solutions, electronic medical record (EMR) systems compatible with virtual visits and secure messaging capabilities.
Kota is able to provide many of these services for our health care clients. Partnering with an IT provider can streamline the setup of these virtual care tools. We can assist with equipment procurement platform integration, and management to keep it running smoothly. Having the proper technology makes it possible for medical centers to expand access to care, all while protecting sensitive patient data from cybersecurity threats.
Even with telemedicine systems, health care providers are still responsible for meeting HIPAA privacy, security and breach notification requirements. IT-managed services can help practices comply on an ongoing basis. For instance, IT teams provide encryption, access controls and offer regular security updates to safeguard patient data conveyed during telehealth visits. They also monitor networks and systems for vulnerabilities, promptly addressing issues that could compromise data. Outsourcing HIPAA compliance activities to IT specialists allows practices to focus on patient care instead of IT particulars.
As telemedicine continues to grow, working with a trusted managed services provider takes the burden of compliance off practices' plates so they can utilize technology to its fullest. As a leader in the industry, the Kota team understands all HIPAA complexities and has strategies to ensure the smooth implementation of telehealth solutions. We can help your clinic manage HIPAA compliance through our proven expertise in deploying and supporting telemedicine technology.
Kota uses the latest tools and resources directly from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services to collaborate with health care clients on creating a plan that ensures their practice is compliant. Learn more about our comprehensive approach to HIPAA compliance and partner with experts today.