When you are auditing charts, what are you looking for in terms of compliance?

I use the following sources for reference when reviewing your charts: HIPAA, ACA ethical guidelines, your state's requirements, the federal government's requirements, the requirements from any insurance companies you may work with, industry best practices, and any specific policies or standards you may have at your practice.

What can I expect after I contact you?

I will offer you several days and times for us to connect. In general, there are a few phases: 1) Planning, 2) Auditing, 3) Reporting, and 4) Follow-up & Feedback. I offer a free 15-minute consultation for us to understand our expectations of each other and to tailor my services to any specific needs you may have. Afterwards I will send you an invoice, a Collaboration Agreement, and the HIPAA-required Business Associate Agreement (BAA). Once the first half of your balance due has been paid and the agreements are signed, I will need a copy of any practice policies or insurance requirements along with access to your EHR or electronic files. Once I have completed the audit, I will provide the audit report, schedule a follow-up check-in for feedback, and request final payment. 

How can you audit my charts without violating HIPAA?

One of the forms we will both sign during the Planning stage is a Business Associate Agreement (BAA). Per HIPAA, this form will allow me to access your clients' information for a specified purpose (in this case, auditing).  In addition, most HIPAA forms or Notice of Privacy Policies include an exception for auditing purposes that allows for third parties to review charts for compliance purposes.