Risk & Quality Management
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How Hospital Won Top Designation from Leapfrog Group
The award was the result of the hospital making itself a data-driven organization that is supported by a robust quality and clinical effectiveness department.
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Groups Urge Support for Clinicians Treating COVID-19 Patients
The steady stream of sick patients who need assistance, combined with fears about contracting the virus, is taking its toll on the mental well-being of healthcare workers.
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A Surgeon-Led Solution Makes It Safe to Reuse N95s in OR for Weeks
A group of surgeons and other healthcare workers devised a reproducible and scalable process for disinfecting N95 respirators.
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A $25 Simulation Technique Can Improve Staff PPE Safety
A team developed a simulation that is inexpensive, easy to create, and effective.
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Tips for HIPAA Compliance During a Pandemic
Remember that the pandemic response may create unique Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act compliance risks. Time, staffing, and focus are at a premium, but staying cognizant of patients’ privacy remains important.
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COVID-19 Changes HIPAA Compliance, But Caution Necessary
The Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights has issued waivers and notices of enforcement discretion for several issues related to Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act compliance, but healthcare organizations still must be careful to comply with the privacy law even during the pandemic.
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Insufficient Expert Report Leads to Partial Defense Dismissal in Botched Hysterectomy Suit
A major lesson from this case is a successful avenue for physicians and care providers to challenge a patient’s inadequate claim: by undermining a patient’s expert. While the patient’s case against the physician defendant has yet to be decided, this ruling in favor of the hospital defendant provides an opportunity for defendants generally.
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Brain Damage Lawsuit Settles for $5 Million
This case exemplifies the benefits of resolving medical malpractice litigation through negotiation and prior to an adverse verdict. There are many factors that can affect a mutual agreement between the parties and a settlement, but such efforts can be extremely beneficial to physicians and care providers to better control payment amounts in the event of liability and to reduce negative exposure and publicity.
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Department of Justice Halts Enforcement and Civil Penalties
The Executive Office for United States Attorneys recently announced that because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has temporarily halted enforcement actions and the collection of civil penalties. The original period ran through May 31, but DOJ said it may extend the period.
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Online Privacy Threats Increasing with More Internet Use
Online threats to patient privacy are increasing as healthcare organizations rely more on technology to interact with patients. Scammers are looking for new opportunities.