This course provides an in-depth examination of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), focusing on patient privacy, data security, and compliance obligations for covered entities and business associates. It explores the legal and regulatory framework governing protected health information (PHI), enforcement mechanisms, and practical challenges in compliance. The course will analyze case law, administrative enforcement actions, and evolving cybersecurity threats affecting patient data security. Participants will gain expertise in HIPAA’s Privacy, Security, and Breach Notification Rules, as well as their intersection with state and federal healthcare laws. This course is designed for legal professionals, compliance officers, healthcare administrators, and technology experts working in health data security.
Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
-
Understand the Legal Framework of HIPAA – Analyze the statutory structure of HIPAA, including its Privacy, Security, and Breach Notification Rules.
-
Evaluate Compliance Requirements – Assess the obligations of covered entities and business associates under HIPAA.
-
Navigate Enforcement Actions – Interpret civil and criminal penalties for HIPAA violations and enforcement trends by the Office for Civil Rights (OCR).
-
Analyze Patient Rights – Examine patient rights under HIPAA, including access to medical records and restrictions on disclosures.
-
Assess Security Measures – Evaluate administrative, technical, and physical safeguards required for HIPAA compliance.
-
Examine Breach Response Protocols – Develop effective strategies for breach detection, reporting, and mitigation.
-
Address Emerging Threats – Explore new developments in health information privacy, including AI, cybersecurity risks, and evolving legislation.
-
Apply HIPAA in Real-World Scenarios – Develop legal strategies for ensuring compliance in diverse healthcare settings.
