Derived entirely and directly from government regulations and guidance publications, this easy-to-follow guide introduces and explains all essential concepts necessary for an understanding of what is required to bring an organization into compliance with the complex and often confusing regulatory framework governing medical records and information. HIPAA compliance is mandatory for organizations like medical, dental or health insurance offices where personal medical information is handled, and penalties for non-compliance can be devastating. This guide provides the information you must have to attain the all-important "good faith effort" standard, along with a list of additional resources which san help bring you into full compliance without unnecessary expense or time and effort. Covers all essential elements of the Privacy Rule, the Security Rule, the Enforcement Rule, the Omnibus Final Rule and the HITECH act.