The first step is to research different Cloud computing options. How do you determine if the Cloud is HIPAA compliant? This could offer more flexibility and convenience for psychologists who practice in rural areas or from multiple locations. Unlike maintaining hard copy records in your office or on your personal computer, storing data on a cloud storage system means the data can be accessed from any location with Internet access or from a mobile device such as a cell phone or tablet. This site allows the provider to access and edit patient files on the server, or it can be used to retrieve files that can then also be saved on the psychologist’s computer. To retrieve the information, the server is generally accessed through a website portal by utilizing a unique username and password. When utilizing a cloud storage system, copies of files are sent over the Internet to a data server where the information is recorded and saved. How is cloud computing different from office-based record keeping? By maintaining your records “in the cloud” and not in your physical office space, your patient records are no longer vulnerable to these risks. It also limits the risk that your files will be lost should an unforeseen event affect your office - such as fire, flood or burglary. Additionally, cloud storage spares the expense of purchasing services or additional computer hardware for electronic storage, and thereby eliminates the need to maintain a large information technology (IT) system on site. Cloud computing affords providers the convenience of accessing patient records from virtually anywhere. What is Cloud Computing?Ĭloud computing is a method of saving data in an off-site storage system maintained by a third party. This article goes more in-depth regarding privacy and security and discusses other options for electronic record storage. The APA Practice Organization (APAPO) provided a basic introduction to cloud computing in October 2011. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) Security Rule generally requires that providers maintain backups of patient records. However, as the movement toward using electronic systems for practice management and patient record keeping has gained momentum, cloud computing has become a valuable tool for backup of patient records. Many psychologists still store records in paper form or on their personal computers. Legal & Regulatory Affairs and Practice Research & Policy staff
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