Cyberattacks targeting the supply chain are an increasingly prevalent threat in the healthcare industry, especially as the modern healthcare supply chain contains significant digital elements, such as the patient engagement vendors that provide public-facing digital tools. These third-party apps and patient-facing tools process sensitive patient data and connect with a healthcare organization’s source systems on the supply chain. As such, they are tempting targets for cybercriminals, who can sell this data on the black market or lock it up with ransomware until they are paid.
Patient education is about more than simply spreading knowledge about the disease. It can also empower patients to better live with their condition and avoid complications–an approach known as therapeutic patient education[¹]
Digital technology can do wonders when it comes to streamlining the work of delivering efficient quality care to patients. The use of patient portals, EHRs, mhealth apps, and wearable tech can all empower patients to be more active in their healthcare, get faster treatment, and access preventative care earlier on. But with all the capabilities of modern technology, we find that many patients are slow to adopt digital tools. If this is the case for your healthcare organization, we recommend the following tips to increase adoption.
Technology has a lot of potential to improve efficiency and health outcomes in the complex practice of healthcare, from time-sensitive interventions in the hospital environment to long-term preventative measures among patient populations. Diagnostics, data management, patient engagement, and personalized medicine all stand to benefit from greater technology integration in a holistic, connected care model. Despite this, there are many hurdles that prevent technology from being adopted as quickly or effectively as it could be. Let’s take a look at the challenges contemporary healthcare organizations face.
Healthcare services are meeting patient demand by becoming increasingly digitized. These digital healthcare services are often developed by third parties and access electronic health records (EHR), revenue cycle management (RCM) systems, and other databases that include sensitive and legally protected information. While these electronic services are beneficial to both patients and providers, they create an increasingly complex software supply chain, with more potential vulnerabilities that are being targeted by hackers[¹]. Healthcare providers can find it difficult to manage effective oversight of these supply chains - including the relationships between different software tools, who has access to what data, and where there might be potential weaknesses.
SMS text messages can be one of the best ways to remind patients of an upcoming appointment. Proven benefits include a reduction in missed appointments[¹], convenience, and the potential to improve patient satisfaction. But you must comply with HIPAA laws to avoid fines and potential damage to your reputation.
It’s come to our attention that many of you are not aware of FQHC.org’s robust FQHC Resource section, so we’ve decided to remedy that by putting together a series of blog posts highlighting our most helpful resources.
As always, our goal is to help make your life just a little bit easier.
If there is anything else we can do to help you solve your biggest operational and financial challenges so your health center can thrive, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
HRSA has updated the Site Visit Protocol (SVP) in response to feedback from stakeholders, including health centers, strategic partners, site visit team reviewers, and HRSA staff. No changes were made to the Compliance Manual or to Health Center Program requirements.
The 2019 SVP Update is now available for public preview. It will go into effect for site visits that start after Thursday, April 18.
As part of HRSA’s commitment to continuous quality improvement, the updated SVP increases clarity and continues to provide HRSA the information necessary to perform its oversight responsibilities using a standard and transparent methodology that aligns with the Compliance Manual. Check out the summary of the changes and 2019 SVP Update Frequently Asked Questions.
We understand how stressful it can be to prepare for your site visit, and we’re here for you. Contact us today to schedule a Mock Site Visit. During this visit, our team of FQHC experts will make you aware of any potential compliance issues so you can be prepared to ace your site visit when the time comes.
If you’ve been following our blog, then you are aware (hopefully!) that 2018 has brought with it changes to the operational site visit (OSV) model.
Today we will focus on those changes specifically related to your Board of Directors, and how you can ensure that your Board is prepared to ace your next OSV.
Many community health care centers have been exempt from certain reporting requirements under the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), but that rule is changing effective January 1, 2015. It is important to review the OSHA changes and make sure you are compliant with all state level and federal regulations.
Do you struggle with determining if a position is exempt or non-exempt from overtime? If so, pay attention because in March President Obama issued a directive to the Department of Labor (DOL) to simplify regulations under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Sweeping changes are expected to be announced in November 2014 that include significant emphasis on how overtime exemptions are determined for executive, administrative, and professional employees commonly referred to as “White Collar Exemptions.” These changes, which do not necessitate congressional approval, could increase your organization's overtime compensation costs.
FQHC Connect is a Free, Private Online Community for FQHC Professionals. Join the conversation, share resources and insights with your peers and access exclusive educational content to ensure your health center can thrive. You can request to join at www.FQHCConnect.com.
