Businesses that have access to protected health information (PHI) on behalf of a covered entity (for example, an employer’s group health plan) typically qualify as “business associates” under the HIPAA Privacy, Security and Breach Notification Rules (HIPAA Rules). If a covered entity uses a business associate, it must have a written business associate agreement with […]

This HR Toolkit provides an overview of pressing issues employers face, including vital information on new federal laws such as the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) and Coronavirus Aid, CARES Act, HIPAA privacy considerations, layoffs and furloughs, tax credits and much more. Note, due to the developing nature of the pandemic, the guidance in […]

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a bulletin to remind covered entities and their business associates that the HIPAA Privacy Rule’s protections still apply during a public health emergency, such as the current coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.

The bulletin also outlines the different ways that patient information may be shared under the Privacy Rule during an outbreak of infectious disease or another emergency situation.