Fundamentals HIPAA Compliance with HIPAA includes workspaces and systems that do not easily permit the disclosure of protected health information. Open operatories are acceptable even though a patient may on occasion hear something about another patient's treatment. However if you must discuss sensitive medical information, you will need a confidential space to do so. Modern software systems allow for more ready compliance by limiting access and establishing increased security. As we mentioned earlier, chart/record rooms need to be secured. In addition, offices where records are used for administrative functions should not readily allow unauthorized access. Security Making a workplace safe is important. Your design can facilitate improved security and response in emergencies. Examples of good security planning would be such things as a locking door with a buzzer or code between the waiting room and the clinical area, and a back exit from the clinic for emergencies. Other possibilities include: * Private access to the clinic for staff members * Places for employees to secure personal items * The implementation of a communication system to inform staff of patient readiness, which may also be used for emergencies or coded responses * Building security with key codes at employee entrances * Locked storage with authorized access * Medication storage with a secure cupboard for all medications and a double-lock for controlled substances * Adequate building and parking lot lighting * Strategically placed barriers and coded access doors for different parts of the clinic * The challenge when addressing security is to keep the office welcoming and non-intimidating to patients and guests JCAHO Compliance to standards is an essential factor in obtaining the honor of JCAHO accreditation (www.jointcommission.org or www.jcrinc.org). Your office design and equipment choices can enhance your ability to attain this honor. Additional Resources Other resources include the American Dental Association (www.ada.org), and the national Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). www.henryschein.com/sm 35http://www.jointcommission.org http://www.jcrinc.org http://www.ada.org http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov http://www.henryschein.com/sm