Providers must use HIPAA compliant text messaging to deliver accessible interventions that enhance patient care while protecting patient privacy and security.
Accessibility
Text messages can reach individuals in real time, facilitating timely communication and support. Patients can read these texts when they're available, fitting into their daily routines without having to answer calls at inconvenient times.
Specifically, HIPAA compliant text messaging allows healthcare providers to share health information while upholding patient privacy.
Furthermore, a survey on replacing conventional telecommunication with HIPAA compliant texting found that “97% of respondents reported [texting] provided at least non-inferior quality of care compared to conventional telecommunication, with a majority (75%) experiencing a relatively improved quality of care. Nine-percent reported an unnecessary [emergency] visit being avoided after consulting their physician through the application.”
Go deeper: Why HIPAA compliant texting is better than traditional calls
Structured interventions
Text messages can deliver structured interventions effectively as evidenced by a systematic review of the information and communication technology features of web- and mobile-based psychoeducational interventions.
Providers can send a simple text message with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to help patients develop healthier thought patterns and coping strategies.
Personalized text messages
HIPAA compliant platforms, like Paubox, allow providers to personalize text messages while keeping protected health information (PHI) inaccessible to unauthorized individuals.
These texts can contain details like the patient's name to encourage more frequent communication, so patients can be more active in their healthcare journey.
How to implement HIPAA compliant texts for patient support
Use a HIPAA compliant platform: Providers must use a HIPAA compliant platform, like Paubox, which offers encryption, secure data storage, audit logs, and two-factor authentication. The platform should sign a business associate agreement (BAA), which is a legal contract that obligates the platform to safeguard PHI.
Obtain patient consent: Healthcare providers must obtain explicit patient consent before sending these texts. HIPAA compliant forms keep a record of this consent and must give patients information on how to opt-out if they no longer want to receive them.
Limit the content: HIPAA mandates that providers only share the necessary information for patient care. So, providers must keep the messages concise, focusing on reminders, tips, or therapeutic guidance without including unnecessary medical details.
Maintain audit logs: HIPAA compliant platforms also track who sent and received messages, when the communication occurred, and what content was shared. It allows providers to review their communications, maintaining HIPAA compliance.
Update company policies: Provider organizations must regularly update their HIPAA compliant texting policies. Moreover, organizations should stay informed on changes to HIPAA regulations and train staff on best practices.
Go deeper: Best practices for patient communication with Paubox texting
FAQs
What is HIPAA compliant texting?
HIPAA compliant texting is a secure method of communication that meets the standards set by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to protect patient information.
Providers must use HIPAA compliant texting to safeguard patients’ protected health information (PHI) is protected from unauthorized access or potential breaches.
Can providers use regular text messages for PHI?
No, providers must use a HIPAA compliant platform, like Paubox, which offers security features like encryption, secure access, and audit trails to protect patient PHI.
Should patients opt-in to receive HIPAA compliant text messages?
Yes, providers must obtain explicit patient authorization before texting health information, ensuring patients have control over how their information is shared.
