The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has published the second of a seven paper series designed to give HIPAA covered entities insight into the Security Rule.

The first paper in this series, “Security 101 for Covered Entities” helps to clarify the concepts of the Security Rule. The second publication, “Security Standards-Physical Safeguards,” features the standards for physical safeguards and specifications for implementation.

The Security Rule compliance deadline for small health plans was April 20, 2006. For more information on HIPAA, log on to the Member Center click on HIPAA Updates. This will take you directly to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid website. In addition to providing access to the HIPAA Security Series, the CMS website offers a variety of HIPAA related information such as: Upcoming Events, FAQS, Regulations and Standards, the latest in HIPAA news, Education Materials, HIPAA related links and more.

If you do not have a Member Center password for your clinic, contact and one will be e-mailed to you.