PREFERRED would like to take this opportunity to express to providers the importance of creating and implementing a Procurement Card Policy and Procedures. To assist providers in making sure key components are addressed PREFERRED has outlined recommended language for such measures as follows:

• Provider/Supplier shall protect against any anticipated threats or hazards to the security or integrity of patient information.
• Provider/Supplier shall protect against any unauthorized access to or use of patient information that might result in substantial harm or inconvenience to stakeholders.
• Provider/Supplier is responsible for security of cardholder data used for payment of services in Provider’s possession.
• Cardholder data may only be used for assisting with completing a transaction, supporting a loyalty program, providing fraud control services, or for uses specifically required by law.
• Provider/Supplier must ensure a proven Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity Program for all cardholder data.
• In the event of a security intrusion, Provider will fully cooperate with approved third party to conduct a thorough security review to validate compliance with Payment Card Industry data standards for protecting cardholder data.

PREFERRED Therapy Providers, Inc. goal is to provide continuous education for providers in our network. PREFERRED would like to emphasize the importance of creating and implementing a Procurement Card Policy and Procedures which safeguards a facility from potential litigation. As a request from our payors, PREFERRED would like to remind providers that protecting information is mandatory. Your policies should clearly indicate that misuse of patient information, financial or otherwise, will be prosecuted to the fullest extent based on both federal and state laws.

If you have any questions regarding this information please contact PREFERRED’s Contracts Department or Provider Relations @ 800.664.5240