HIPAA DEFINITIONS FOR ELECTRONIC PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION:

Encryption means the use of an algorithmic process to transform data into a form in which there is a low probability of assigning meaning without use of a confidential process or key.

Access means the ability or the means necessary to read, write, modify, or communicate data/information or otherwise use any system resource.

Authentication means the corroboration that a person is the one claimed.

Technical safeguards means the technology, policy and procedures for its use that protect electronic protected health information and control access to it.

Workstation means an electronic computing device, for example, a laptop or desktop computer, or any other device that performs similar functions, and electronic media stored in its immediate environment implement the implementation specifications.

Workforce clearance procedure
(Addressable). Implement procedures to determine that the access of a workforce member to electronic protected health information is appropriate.

Are you a covered entity under HIPAA regulations?

The following is a simple test for determining whether or not you qualify as a provider and therefore must follow the HIPAA guidelines:

iDoes the person, business, or agency furnish bill, or receive payment for, health care in the normal course of business?

i If the answer is yes, does the person, business, or agency conduct covered transactions?

i If yes, are any of the covered transactions transmitted in electronic form?

i If the answer to this question is yes, the person, business, or agency is a covered health care provider and must comply with all HIPAA regulations

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