What dentists should know:
1. The enforcement discretion allowed healthcare providers to conduct telehealth appointments that were not in full compliance with HIPAA, including using nonpublic facing remote communication platforms such as Apple FaceTime, Zoom or Skype.
2. Dental practices have until 11:59 p.m. on Aug. 9 to comply with HIPAA rules on telehealth following the end of the enforcement discretion.
3. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights encouraged healthcare providers seeking to expand privacy protections to work with HIPAA-compliant technology vendors for telehealth services.
4. The American Dental Association advised dental practices April 26 to assess data security risks associated with their current telehealth services and encrypt all patient information.
5. The dental agency also recommended dental practices update HIPAA policies and procedures on telehealth and train staff on any changes.
At the Becker's 5th Annual Future of Dentistry Roundtable, taking place November 12–14 in Chicago, dental leaders and executives will gain insights into emerging technologies, practice growth strategies and the evolving landscape of dental care delivery, with a focus on innovation, patient experience and operational excellence. Apply for complimentary registration now.
