03 May If PHI Moves Without Your Knowledge – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
ChartFast PHI FAQ’s
1. Why should I consider opting out of the EHR/ROI program that bypasses HIM?
2. How do I opt-out of the program?
3. Why should HIM stay in the loop for releases associated with health plans?
4. What is the best way to stay in control of requests for records in my organization?
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1. Why should I consider opting-out of the EHR/ROI program that bypasses HIM?
Although the alliance between some EHR and ROI companies was established in good faith, we believe that the goal of such a relationship is probably more focused on meeting their collective business goals. Opting-out ensures that you retain a voice in the process and that you give yourself the freedom to manage release of records in the manner that is best suited for your organization and not for the vendor.
2. How do I opt-out?
Contact your EHR provider and ask if they have launched into an alliance with an ROI company. If they have, let them know you want to opt-out.
3. Why should HIM stay in the loop for releases associated with health plans?
Although health plan releases can be burdensome due to their size, and in many instances short timeframes, they are a necessity. The releases are usually associated with programs that help health plans maintain or increase their ratings, which has a positive effect on your organization and patients. Having a complete accounting of disclosure and visibility of the process will ensure that only patients associated with specific plans are release as opposed to allowing large dumps of data.
Ultimately as the primary custodian of medical records and PHI, having full transparency and authorization is an absolute necessity.
4. What is the best way to stay in control of the request for records process at my facility?
Having the right technology that is designed to streamline and support the release of information process is a necessity. At minimum, it should include the ability to guide the user through the requesting process. It should provide real-time communication so that questions can be answered quickly. Accounting of disclosures and tracking should be easily accessed for optimal transparency. And, it should also allow for the HIM department to ramp-up remotely when multiple large requests flow through the organization.
Working with a company that is customer-centric and offers a platform that has the highest level of security and ease of use of an e-commerce platform is HIM’s best bet to remain in control.