OCR issues bulletin on applying HIPAA Privacy Rule in emergencies such as Ebola

Posted on; 11/12/14


The Department of Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights has issued a bulletin reviewing the ways in which patient information may be shared under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Privacy Rule in emergency situations such as the Ebola outbreak. According to the bulletin, the HIPAA Privacy Rule is not suspended during a public health or other emergency, but “is balanced to ensure that appropriate uses and disclosures of the information still may be made when necessary to treat a patient, to protect the nation’s public health, and for other critical purposes.” 

If the president declares an emergency or disaster and the secretary declares a public health emergency (which they have not for the current Ebola situation), the Health and Human Services secretary may waive penalties for violations of certain provisions of the rule for a limited time, the bulletin notes. For more information on HIPAA in emergency situations, visit www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/hipaa/understanding/special/emergency. (AHA News Now, Nov. 10, 2014)

Save the dates for OHA 2022 events

Posted on: 2/18/22


It’s a new year and a new lineup of important events for you and your staff. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to engage in advocacy, education and networking all year long. Mark your calendar now!

OHA Advocacy Day - Tuesday, April 5, Oklahoma History Center. Join us for our annual legislative day. We will begin with a member briefing at 3 p.m., followed by a legislative reception at 5 p.m. Watch for registration materials soon.

OHA-PAC Golf Tournament - Tuesday, June 21, Jimmie Austin Golf Club at OU, Norman. Time and details TBA.

OHA Health Care Leaders Forum - Tuesday, July 19 - Thursday, July 21, Shangri-La Resort, Grand Lake. Watch for registration soon!

OHA Connect 22 - Wednesday, Nov. 9 - Friday, Nov. 11, Oklahoma City Convention Center and Omni Hotel, downtown Oklahoma City. Plan now to attend OHA’s annual conference and exhibit hall. More details to come.

Details on these events and other upcoming education opportunities will be available on the OHA website.