The HIPAA Omnibus Rule marks the most sweeping changes to the HIPAA privacy and security rules since they were first implemented nearly 18 years ago. Under the rule, first-time violations can be up to $50,000 per incident per year and repeat violations can result in a $1.5 million fine.

Physicians need to look to create an environment in which patients feel attended to, responded to, and respected. Carole Lambert, MPA, RN, assistant vice president, Membership Review and Education, residents program director for the Cooperative of American Physicians, says that starts with medical practice staff.

Ideal risk reduction strategies will focus on the transition process from the inpatient to the outpatient setting.

Despite the enormous amount of knowledge that was imparted upon you during your education, perhaps one of the most important elements of maintaining a successful practice was, most likely, barely touched upon. The concept of quality health care is not complete without a rigorous discussion of patient satisfaction. A good physician/patient relationship is a crucial element of a successful practice. The fact that patients do not complain does not necessarily mean they are satisfied with the care they are receiving.

Having members of your care team “shadow” a patient through the process of receiving care can help identify ways to improve the patient experience and increase efficiency.