“Behavioral health records contain highly confidential patient information, much of which is protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) Privacy Rule. The state of electronic health records (EHR) as they relate to HIPAA compliance is particularly concerning when looking at converting paper health records to EHR. While many therapists and psychiatrists have long since acquainted themselves with EHR and many acknowledge the benefits they provide, just as many foresee difficulties with EHR pertaining to patient confidentiality.
Robert Plovnick, M.D., M.S., and Director of the Department of Quality Improvement and Psychiatric Services at the American Psychiatric Association (APA), noted his concerns when he addressed the House Small Business Committee in July 2008.”
Article
Fred Pennic, Healthcare IT Consultant Blog, 4 January 2010
