4 Common Myths About HIPAA Exams

f you are employed in the healthcare, insurance, legal, or related industries you are likely certified in many different policies and legislation. One important piece of legislation for those industries is the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) that was put into effect in 1996. If you have not already, you may have thought about or plan to get certified by taking a HIPAA exam. Like anything else, there are some common myths or misconceptions about exams that could be holding you back. Putting these myths to rest will hopefully inspire you to reconsider taking an exam and obtaining HIPAA certification.

This list is to help dispute some common myths about exams that may be discouraging you or your employees from obtaining certification. Below are 4 common myths often associated with exams and training programs:

1) HIPAA exams are expensive. This myth was started because some programs are expensive. That is certainly not the case for all programs. Just like traditional colleges, the exam and training programs come in a wide range of prices. Some very reputable HIPAA certification programs offer training and exams at very reasonable rates. At that cost, there is no reason not to become HIPPA certified.

2) HIPAA training takes too much time. Many think that the training programs leading up to the exams take days or weeks to complete. This is another common misconception. There are reputable HIPAA training programs that only take approximately 45 minutes to complete. A certification program that short can be done over the lunch hour.

3) HIPAA exams and certification are not necessary. It is true that HIPAA certification is not required by law for most professions, but all professions are held accountable for HIPAA laws. Without the deep understand that a HIPAA training and exam can provide, you may find yourself in violation. A HIPAA violation can result in hefty fees or a civil lawsuit. Not only are there legal repercussions, but you may lose patients or clients if they discover your HIPAA violations.

4) One HIPAA certification is good for my lifetime. Like any other laws or legislation, HIPAA is constantly changing. To keep current on HIPAA policies, you must renew your HIPAA certification periodically. Many exam and training providers offer automatic renewal reminders so you can know when you need to renew your certification. These renewal reminders are helpful if you can not always keep a close watch on HIPAA changes.

10 HIPAA and Other Training Exams Healthcare Pros Should Take

One of the best ways for healthcare professionals to stay at the top of their game is continuing education and certification. Backed by extensive and solid knowledge, professionals are more prepared to handle the obstacles they encounter every day. One important certification that professionals should obtain is the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPAA exams are an excellent way to test and maintain knowledge of HIPAA regulations and compliance.

In addition to the HIPAA exam there is a long list of exams that every health professional should consider taking. The more certifications a healthcare professional has, the better care they can provide to their patients. Below are 10 exams every professional should consider taking:

1) HIPAA exam. Mentioned before, the HIPAA exam is an important exam to take. By completed certification in HIPAA healthcare professionals can ensure they will always be in compliance. HIPAA violations are costly often resulting in fines and civil lawsuits.

2) Assault, Abuse, and Neglect exam. This training is essential for any professionals that come in direct contact with patients. Emergency healthcare, women's healthcare, and children's healthcare providers will find this particularly useful in identifying when these types of issues come up with their patients.

3) Advanced Healthcare Directive exam. An advanced healthcare directive, also known as a living will, details the steps that should be taken should a person become too ill or incapacitated to make their own healthcare decisions. Any healthcare professional can use the extra training to navigate this emotional and complicated issue.

4) Age Appropriate Care exam. No matter the age, young or elderly, each stage of human development requires specific care and treatment. This training and exam will help healthcare professionals identify the different needs of each age group.

5) Aseptic technique training exam. The aseptic training teaches how to perform sterilization procedures and maintain a sterile environment. This training is especially useful to those professionals in surgery situations, but is applicable to all healthcare professionals.

6) Bloodborne pathogen training exam. Many of the world's deadliest and most dangerous diseases are carried and spread through human blood. Completing a training exam on bloodborne pathogens can greatly reduce risks of spread of disease by professionals.

7) Body Mechanics training exam. The study of the human body's natural movement, body mechanics is a must for all professionals. Completing a body mechanics training exam will provide healthcare professional with additional knowledge in diagnosis and treating certain body ailments in patients.

8) CPR training exam. CPR, an important aspect of first aid, training is highly useful in any type of healthcare environment. It is also highly valuable in many other professions.