Reference no: EM133388395

Question

As you continue exploring HIPAA's requirements regarding fundraising activities, I wanted to consider the impact--if any--that the COVID-19 pandemic should have on those provisions. All of us can witness how our health care system is being pushed to capacity with the current pandemic. In that regard, news reports reveal the potential lack of personal protective equipment at many heath care facilities as well as other life-saving equipment, including ventilators. We also see a shortage of human resources at some facilities. Granted, current times are extenuating and unprecedented. That said, as we are moving past the pandemic (thankfully), there is no doubt that many hospitals and other health care facilities will need additional funding to move forward and be even better prepared for any future global health crises. In that regard, do you think HIPAA's fundraising regulations be liberalized to make it easier for covered entities to target potential donors? If so, then what aspects of the regulations would you suggest amending and how? If you do not believe the regs should be relaxed, why not? Thoughts?