HR Compliance Update: The New Administration Takes HIPAA Security Rule Complaints Seriously

Here’s what you need to know about the latest takeaways from the Office for Civil Rights enforcement update

Here’s the key takeaway from the latest HIPAA Security Rule enforcement update: the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights (OCR) makes it clear that they won’t overlook HIPAA violations. 

What does that mean for you, as an HR professional? It’s time to double down on compliance efforts. We’ll walk you through it and show you why staying compliant protects both your employees and your organization.   

What can this administration’s first press release regarding HIPAA enforcement tell us? 

It may allow us to glean that the OCR is continuing its ransomware and risk analysis initiatives. 

OCR recently resolved a HIPAA violation complaint with a hospital for $25,000. The penalties stemmed from two major issues: 

• A ransomware attack exposed the electronic protected health information (ePHI) of 5,000 individuals 
• Former employees hacked into network systems to access patient records 

The investigation revealed that the hospital failed to ensure full HIPAA Security Rule compliance.  

OCR responded with a corrective action plan that places the hospital under a three-year monitoring agreement. This case shows us that regular reviews and proactive compliance measures can save companies from steep penalties and reputation damage. 

Why does the HIPAA Security Rule matter? 

If you’re in HR, you already know the sensitive nature of employee information, especially electronic protected health information (“ePHI”). The HIPAA Security Rule exists to safeguard ePHI by keeping it confidential, accessible only to authorized users, and protected against threats. 

Failing to comply can lead to data breaches, regulatory fines, lost trust, and negative media coverage. Compliance does more than satisfy legal requirements. It proves that you value security and are serious about protecting your workforce’s ePHI. 

6 lessons group health plans can learn from the latest enforcement case 

Not sure what steps you need to take? Start with these key priorities to stay off OCR’s radar: 

1. Conduct a Thorough Risk Analysis 

OCR highlights the importance of evaluating risks to ePHI. Set time aside to assess where ePHI data could be vulnerable. 

2. Build and Implement a Risk Management Plan 

Identify vulnerabilities and address them proactively. Are employees confident in their HIPAA training? Close the gaps before threats arise. 

3. Monitor Systems for Possible Risks 

Check audit logs, access reports, and incident tracking reports often. This regular monitoring keeps threats in check and resolves issues quickly. 

4. Update Your Policies and Procedures Regularly 

Think of policies and procedures as your HIPAA playbook. Keep them aligned with current rules so they don’t turn into compliance risks. 

5. Review and Manage Access Credentials 

Audit who can access sensitive data regularly. Limit access to authorized users only and disable former employees’ credentials immediately. 

6. Assess Breaches Quickly and Take Action 

Unfortunately, breaches can happen. Respond fast by conducting a breach risk assessment and handling any required notifications promptly. Taking immediate action restores trust and shows compliance. 

Your group health plan’s action plan to stay HIPAA compliant 

HR professionals are already balancing countless priorities. Adding HIPAA Security Rule compliance might seem overwhelming, but ignoring it can cost much more in the long run. Here’s how you can manage it: 

• Schedule internal audits of your organization’s HIPAA practices. 
• Leverage OCR resources to update your policies and improve employee training. 
• Equip your workforce with the knowledge they need to safeguard ePHI. 

At ComplianceDashboard, we’re all about helping you stay ahead. With custom compliance calendars and clear task guides, we make sure you avoid compliance stress and keep your focus on higher priorities. 

Don’t wait for an OCR letter. Stay prepared, proactive, and compliant. Learn more about how HIPAA10 can help!