What impact did the HIPAA Omnibus Rule have on business associates?

The HIPAA Omnibus Rule expanded the responsibilities and accountability of business associates concerning the handling of protected health information (PHI). Prior to this rule, business associates had certain obligations under HIPAA, but the Omnibus Rule significantly increased their accountability, making them directly liable for compliance with specific HIPAA provisions.

This change means that business associates must now adhere to the same privacy and security regulations as covered entities, ensuring that they implement adequate safeguards to protect PHI and report any breaches. Additionally, the rule mandates that business associates must enter into a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) with the covered entities they work with, further outlining their responsibilities and the necessary compliance with HIPAA standards. This increased level of responsibility underscores the importance of accountability in managing sensitive health information in compliance with privacy laws.