February 5, 2025
By Diane Evans
Dear readers, in less than 7 minutes, this video explains new changes to HIPAA regulations:
If you need an updated Notice of Privacy Practices, we have one available here: https://www.guardededge.com/category/all-products
For a written explanation, here is our post:
Whatever you are planning for 2025, add this to the list: Revise your Notices of Privacy Practices (NPP) so that new provisions are disseminated and communicated to those you serve by February 16, 2026.
The new requirements apply to all organizations that must comply with the Health Information Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
Key changes relate to higher-level protections for the release of information pertaining to reproductive care and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) records.
A couple points relating to reproductive care:
Individuals served must be protected from any kind or backlash (specifically by law enforcement) for any legally obtained care.
For those providers serving older populations, this applies to past records that may be in your custody.
Similarly, a higher level of confidentiality will also apply to Substance Use Disorder (SUD) records:
A patient’s SUD treatment and medical records require specific consent from the individual served, and cannot be disclosed based on broad permission for disclosure.
Release of SUD records in civil, criminal or legislative proceedings require a court order or an individual’s consent.
Individuals may obtain an accounting of disclosures or request restrictions on disclosures.
In addition to adopting updated privacy notices, organizations will need:
New policies to reflect the updated regulations;
Updated Business Associate Agreements;
A plan for communicating charges to individuals served or their legal representatives.
For an updated Notice of Privacy Practices, go to:
We will have additional updated documents available soon.
Join our Upcoming Risk Assessment Training for Long-Term Care Leaders
(HRCI credits available)
Title: Planning and Objectives
Date: Wednesday, February 19, 2025 Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST Location: Zoom
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