What is HIPAA?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability ACT (HIPAA) of 1996 is a US Federal Law that replaced the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. HIPAA sets a national standard for the protection of individuals’ medical records and other personal health information. It’s main goal is to ensure that sensitive patient information is kept confidential and secure.

How does HIPAA relate to patient medical records?
HIPAA mandates that covered entities, like healthcare providers, insurers, and their business associates, protect patient information. When physical records containing sensitive health information are no longer needed, HIPAA requires that patient medical records be disposed of securely to prevent unauthorized access.

Is shredding considered a safe way to destroy medical records?
Shredding is one of the most effective ways to ensure that medical records are properly destroyed. This is in line with HIPAA’s Data Destruction Rule, which specifies that any physical records containing personal health information (PHI) must be destroyed in a way that makes it unreadable, indecipherable, and irreversible.

How can MicroShred help make you compliant?
MicroShred offers secure document shredding services that ensure compliance with Federal Law requirements. Using advanced cross-cut shredders, MicroShred guarantees the complete destruction of sensitive documents, making them unreadable and permanently destroyed. Every client receives a Certificate of Destruction as proof that all documents entrusted to MicroShred have been securely destroyed. Additionally, we prioritize sustainability by converting shredded paper into pulp for recycling. As an eco-friendly company, MicroShred promotes recycling, so by choosing our shredding services, you’re also contributing to a greener environment.