Business Continuity Planning in the Healthcare Environment

Overview Article discusses practical guidelines. It is estimated that HIPAA compliance could cost the healthcare industry in the United States more than the amount expended on Y2K preparedness. In addition, there are new regulations concerning the earthquake retrofits of hospitals that could price many standalone community hospitals out of the market. Large health care systems become ever more dependent on information technology to keep the business running. Thus, the business continuity planning process is increasingly complex, but nevertheless must keep the focus on the planning process as business function driven. Recovery solutions must be developed at the same time as healthcare providers strengthen their emergency preparedness efforts. Article informs that HIPAA will finally mandate business continuity planning in the healthcare industry, which along with stepped up emergency response capabilities, will prepare US healthcare organizations for the disasters to come.