Appointment Reminders & HIPAA Compliance: Understanding Non-Secure and Secure

At Sessions Health, we prioritize the security and privacy of health information, and we understand that HIPAA compliance is critical when using electronic communication. This article will provide an overview of our appointment reminder feature, explain how it aligns with HIPAA requirements, and clarify the security levels involved to help you make informed choices for your practice.

Are Appointment Reminders secure?

Currently, Sessions Health offers appointment reminders via non-secure channels—specifically email and text (SMS). According to HIPAA, these forms of communication are not inherently secure, as they may be intercepted by third parties. If your clients choose to receive appointment reminders via email or SMS, HIPAA requires that they are informed of the risks associated with using non-secure communication and that they sign a written request acknowledging their understanding and acceptance of these risks.

Informing clients about the risks

To comply with HIPAA, it’s essential to have an informed consent process for clients who opt to receive appointment reminders through non-secure channels. This process should include:

1. Explanation of Non-Secure Communication: Let clients know that while email and SMS are convenient, these methods do not provide the same level of security as secure messaging. Their information could potentially be accessed by unauthorized parties.
2. Written Acknowledgment: HIPAA requires a written acknowledgment if clients wish to proceed with non-secure appointment reminders. This document should indicate that they understand and accept the potential risks of non-secure communication.
3. Alternative Options: It’s a good idea to discuss options with your clients. For example, clients can opt to turn off appointment reminders if they prefer not to use non-secure communication.

Can clients control their reminder preferences?

Yes! Clients can manage their preferences for receiving appointment reminders through their Sessions Health account. They can choose to opt-out of appointment reminders or change their preferred delivery method.

Conclusion

At Sessions Health, we are committed to supporting your HIPAA compliance by offering options for secure and non-secure communications. While appointment reminders currently utilize non-secure methods, ensuring clients understand the risks and sign an acknowledgment if they opt-in keeps your practice in line with HIPAA requirements. If you have further questions, feel free to reach out to our support team at support@sessionshealth.com.