The regulatory landscape in healthcare is continually shifting, creating a complex and ever-growing challenge for healthcare organizations. One of the areas most impacted by these changes is the Release of Information (ROI) process. This fundamental responsibility – ensuring that accurate patient records are shared timely while in compliance with regulations – remains a core function for all healthcare organizations.

Though ROI is often viewed as an entry-level role, it’s crucial to recognize the growing demand for well-trained professionals in this field. The expertise of ROI staff directly impacts an organization’s ability to provide timely, accurate access to patient records while safeguarding patient privacy. In today’s healthcare environment, where breaches of confidentiality and regulatory violations can result in significant financial and reputational damage, the need for competent and knowledgeable staff is critical.

ROI staff must understand the complexities of releasing a minor’s records, ensuring appropriate safeguards are in place to protect any confidential care and that the disclosure complies with applicable state laws. Additionally, staff are often tasked with navigating the complex response process to subpoenas or law enforcement requests. And distinguishing between permitted disclosures and those required by law can be particularly challenging.

Many healthcare organizations struggle to ensure their ROI teams have the required skills and expertise to handle these complex requests effectively. Maintaining in-house training programs can be both resource-intensive and costly. Fortunately, there are alternatives to in-house training that can help healthcare organizations and ROI professionals stay ahead of the curve.

The Solution: Haugen Academy’s Release of Information Learning Plan

Haugen Academy’s Release of Information Learning Plan is a carefully designed educational pathway aimed at helping health information professionals enhance their ROI expertise. Crafted with both entry-level and advanced professionals in mind, this Learning Plan helps organizations address the ongoing challenge of keeping their ROI teams informed and compliant in an industry marked by frequent regulatory changes.

The Learning Plan includes six months of access to comprehensive educational content covering everything from the basics to advanced topics in ROI. The plan includes:

• ROI Part 1: The Basics
  This foundational course provides an essential introduction to ROI principles, including the critical concepts of patient privacy, the legal framework around health records, and best practices for fulfilling requests.
• ROI Part 2: Beyond the Basics
  Building on the basics, this course takes a deeper dive into more complex aspects of the ROI process. Learners gain insight into the intricacies of handling specific scenarios and managing challenges that arise in the release of information process.
• ROI Advanced Scenarios and Hot Topics
  Designed for experienced professionals, this webinar focuses on emerging trends, hot topics, and complex situations often encountered by seasoned ROI staff. Topics covered include the release of sensitive information, handling complex legal requests, and staying ahead of new healthcare regulations.

Continuous Learning for Ongoing Success

In an industry where regulatory changes are the norm, it is essential for healthcare professionals to stay updated on the latest rules, guidelines, and best practices. The healthcare field is evolving at a rapid pace, and ROI staff must constantly reassess and improve their knowledge to remain proficient and compliant.

The ROI Learning Plan is an investment in your team’s proficiency, helping them tackle the “tug of war” between fulfilling requests quickly and safeguarding patient information. This comprehensive training program ensures that professionals are not only compliant but also confident in their ability to handle any scenario that arises, positioning both individuals and organizations for long-term success in healthcare.

Whether you are an individual looking to advance your career or an employer seeking to equip your team with the best resources, this educational program is a must-have!