WPC News

The Cost of Non-Compliance

June 13, 2012

What is the true cost of HIPAA and HITECH non-compliance? The answer today looks very different than it did even a few years ago. The Nashville Medical News turned to WPC president Eric Mueller for his perspective.

According to Mueller, previously “There was no stick. The cost of compliance was higher than the cost of the fines,” and enforcement was inconsistent. But the situation is very different today.

Current legal requirements include much more stringent guidelines, and the federal government is conducting proactive audits of covered entities. In addition to monetary fines, consequences of a breach can include legal fees and reputational damage.

“When you have a violation or breach, and there is a perception that your data is not secured properly, it definitely erodes the brand,” Mueller said.

To read the full article and to learn more about common mistakes healthcare organizations make in approaching security, click here.