The Compliance Insider 

Complying with the FMLA rules can also be a confusing issue. This question is also a frequent one. Q: Do I really have to approve leave for treatment of substance abuse? A: Substance abuse may be a serious... Continue Reading

This is a question that is raised frequently. It is sometimes a confusing issue. We hope this clears up any confusion. Q. When an attorney requests records and asks that all records be released, must we... Continue Reading

The HIPAA Privacy Rule protects most "individually identifiable health information" held or transmitted by a covered entity or its business associate, in any form or medium, whether electronic, on paper, or oral. The... Continue Reading

This is a reminder that cleanup procedures for chemical spills depend on the size of the spill and the risks. Make sure employees understand cleanup rules. Even small spills of highly toxic or flammable... Continue Reading

The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) (29 CFR 1910.1200(g)), revised this year, requires that the chemical manufacturer, distributor, or importer provide Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) (formerly MSDSs or Material Safety... Continue Reading

Now that the presidential election is finally over, healthcare reform and the HITECH electronic health records incentive program look like they're here to stay. But there's still a big uncertainty lingering: A... Continue Reading

The answer to this question offers some interesting information on blood exposure to the eyes. Q: Are emergency eyewash stations required for blood exposures to the eyes? A: There is a fine technical debate... Continue Reading

An important lesson in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy is the need to beef up contingency plans, including making sure staff members are cross-trained. "Practices in New York and Jersey affected by the storm found... Continue Reading

Although your OSHA training is required annually, here is a question that many practices may have: Q: Does our annual OSHA training have to happen exactly one year to the day later? We are low-staffed right now and... Continue Reading

Many Accountable Care Organizations have formed across the nation in the past year. Though the ACO model is still developing, one thing is certain: Organizations need to be prepared financially for the new healthcare... Continue Reading