New HIPAA Rules Regarding Reproductive Healthcare:

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has updated the HIPAA Privacy Rule to Support Reproductive Health Care Privacy.

Who Is Effected:  Almost all healthcare providers.

Summary:  Reproductive Healthcare Information (“RHI”) has basically been categorized as “super” confidential, and CANNOT be disclosed for nonhealthcare purposes, such as audits, court orders, or law enforcement investigations; unless they obtain signed attestations from individuals requesting the reproductive healthcare information, confirming that the information will not be used against providers or patients in legal cases concerning reproductive healthcare.

Implementation Timeline: Effective Date was June 25, 2024. Compliance is required by December 23, 2024, with updates to the Notice of Privacy Practices required by February 16, 2026.

Recommendations:  There are going to be numerous changes that will be required to software, forms, training, and compliance documentation.  Please contact us for further information.