The implementation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) regulations impacts electronic records and the security and privacy of patient identifiable health information by all health providers. In response to this challenge, PSIMedica, through its Parent Company BRLI has implemented an approach to identify, assess and plan for changes required by the HIPAA regulations. A HIPAA Oversight Committee ("Oversight Committee), which reports to BRLI’s Board of Directors, was formed in 2002 to coordinate this task. The Oversight Committee consists of members of the Executive and Management staffs representing the entities, including PSIMedica, that comprise BRLI. In addition, a HIPAA Compliance Officer has been appointed, established a HIPAA Project Office, and developed a framework for activities. As mandated in the proposed rules, a Privacy/Security Officer has also been appointed.

As the final HIPAA rules are released and their impact upon PSIMedica’s operations is analyzed, our response to HIPAA is reviewed and revised as necessary.

As preparations for HIPAA compliance advances, our focus remains on our responsibilities to ensure we meet the HIPAA standards, while not negatively impacting our ability to promote the advancement of healthcare informatics to improve the quality of healthcare delivery of services and better manage medical expenditures.

If you have any further questions please contact Dr. Peter B. Gillman at the HIPAA Project Office directly or via email at PGILLMAN@PSIMEDICA.COM or HIPAAPROJECTOFFICE@BIOREFERENCE.COM or at 800-229-5227 ext 433.