Apply the Ethical Decision-Making Step to the Privacy Breach/HIPAA Violation
Ethical Decision-Making Framework for Health Care Leaders
| Number | Ethical Decision-Making Step* | Apply the Ethical Decision-Making Step to the Privacy Breach/HIPAA Violation |
| 1. | Recognize and define the issue | An employee at Vila Health employee released information to the insurance company without a release signed. The compliance committee would determine if the employee were aware they violated HIPAA laws. |
| 2. | Identify factors | It appears there was not a compliance process in place for obtaining proper consent from patients. |
| 3. | Consider ethical principles | Determine whether the employee knowingly violated HIPAA. |
| 4. | Determine response | Responses will depend on the intent – was the organization knowingly/willingly neglectful in this breach. |
| 5. | Recommend a response | Updating procedures for obtaining consent and ensuring training and processes were consistent and audited. |
| 6. | Assess current response and potential future issues | Having annual HIPAA and compliance training for the entire health system to ensure understanding and appropriate practices are being followed. |
Burton, B. (2014). How to lead your organization in compliance, ethics, and customer service. Journal of AHIMA, 85(8), 22-25.
GEt-related BHA FPX4010 Assessment 1
Conclusion
BHA FPX4006 Assessment 1 Health Care Regulation and Compliance is vital to develop and implement accurate HIPAA practices are enforced in the organization. Communicating the responsibility of each person in the health system to this compliance topic is key. Focusing on internal activities such as education, auditing, and process improvement allows an organization to be proactive in compliance violation avoidance and better prepares leaders in the event of future issues.
References
Alexio, J. (2021). Healthcare Compliance Auditing and Monitoring.Emptech.com.
Amick, C. (2020). Three Key Recommendations to Improve HIPAA Compliance. The Doctor Weighs In.
Burton, B. (2014). How to lead your organization in compliance, ethics, and costumer service. Journal of AHIMA, 85(8), 22-25.
Cascardo, D. (2014). HIPAA Investigation Risks are Increasing: Make Sure You Avoid the “Wall of Shame”.The Journal of Medical Practice
Management: 30(2), 119-123.
CMS. (2021). HIPAA Basics for Providers: Privacy, Security, & Breach Notification Rules. MLN Network.
Compliancy Group. (2021). HIPAA Violations, Breaches, and Fines/ Full list of HIPAA Violations.
Snell, E. (2020). What is a HIPAA Business Associate Agreement (BAA)? HealthIT Security.
