Medical facilities have to deal with hundreds of patient records daily. These records represent PHI, which is the very information about one’s medical history, social security number, or other sensitive data regarding patients. In case of not being disposed of properly, there is a great possibility of data breaches or identity theft or some heavy fines due to HIPAA non-compliance in prospect.
Jessica’s Shredding Team realizes how important it is to protect confidential patient data. They offer services for hospitals, clinics, and other such medical facilities. Be it back files or even outdated insurance claims, Jessica’s Shredding Team destroys each piece with care and in utter privacy.
HIPAA Compliance and Shredding Frequency
Under HIPAA, healthcare organizations are required to take more security measures to ensure that information regarding patients is not misplaced and that unauthorized parties have not accessed it. This includes medical records, which, after use, are to be disposed of in a secure manner. They cannot just throw them in the dumpster but act to dispose of them properly, often by shredding them.
Jessica’s Shredding Team offers HIPAA-compliant shredding services designed to achieve all the necessary legal measures. They also provide a certificate of destruction to ensure complete certainty that healthcare facilities are in compliance with regulations.
Many healthcare providers ask themselves how often they should schedule shredding appointments. The frequency of shredding may be determined by the volume of records generated. Busy practices may have to schedule shredding every week, while small clinics may need it once a month. Jessica’s Shredding Team allows flexible shredding schedules that best fit each client in the operation so that no records linger any longer than their useful life.
What Medical Records Should Be Shredded?
Medical records include a wide variety of documentation that requires safe disposal, such as the following:
- Patient Charts: Contain detailed medical histories and sensitive health information.
- X-rays: These may include images that can detail specific conditions in a patient.
- Insurance Information: Includes personal data and details that are financial in nature and require protection.
- Laboratory Results: These often contain very sensitive information about the patient’s health and test results.
- Billing Statements: Contain financial information that could be misused if not properly destroyed.
- Appointment Reminders: These may contain identifiable patient information and must be shredded as well.
- Electronic Media (CDs, DVDs, USB drives): Any electronic device that holds patient information must be destroyed securely to ensure compliance.
Take the First Step toward Compliance and Security
Don’t let old medical records become a liability. Jessica’s Shredding Team has tailored solutions for every healthcare provider. Make the call today to schedule your shredding service and help protect patients’ sensitive information while keeping your facility in compliance with HIPAA. Let Jessica’s Shredding Team help you learn more or set up a schedule that will fit your needs.
