President's Address

February is American Heart Month, and some of us will recall our 2007 campaign "Change is Everything" in which we promoted heart disease awareness and living a healthier lifestyle, as heart disease is the #1 killer among women. In women it can also be silent in its onset. We must be diligent in keeping stress in check and creating outlets for good health and peace of mind. Read more.

Be the Face of National MT Week!

Save the Date! May 19-25, 2013

During National MT Week, we will be showcasing examples of critical errors AHDI members caught and corrected or flagged. Now is your chance to show the world how you make a difference every day in keeping patients safe.

You could be the face of our National MT Week campaign!

Find out more and submit your entry to be the Face of National MT Week Today!

Your Favorite Things of 2012

In January we asked what your favorite things of 2012 were. Find out what your fellow colleagues liked the most in 2012!

Favorite product… Medical Transcription Tools CEC Bundle! This new power-pack of creditworthy information in the category of MTT is the perfect solution for someone looking for CECs for recredentialing. Coming in a close second was the new CMT Exam Audio Objectives CD, perfect for those studying for their CMT exam.

Favorite issue of Plexus… "Public Speaking, The Art of Communication," July. This issue of Plexus focuses on the difference communication can make, even something as simple as giving thanks and how it's important to make sure we are present in the conversations we have. AHDI members: log in and catch up on how to communicate better!

Favorite webinar content… Preparing for the Future! Everyone wants to know what the future has in store, and though we don't have a crystal ball at our disposal, we have incorporated a new feature in Resource Central called "Future Watch" that will give you an insight as to what lies ahead and will provide information on future-focused webinars, articles, and other websites with similar discussions.

Favorite AHDI Member Benefit… Tied for your favorite benefit are Plexus magazine and Networking through AHDI alliances and components. These are both great benefits that we are proud to share with our members. Don't forget, AHDI members can access archives of Plexus magazine by logging into the website and going to Member Center > My Benefits > Publications. And you can join one of our Special Interest Alliances online or find a component in your area!

Dedicated Student Track at ACE!

Students, we know the concerns you face, demands of your time, and mindfulness of where every penny goes. So this year we are putting together a special track of educational sessions geared toward your needs. Topics planned include:

• Voice/Speech Recognition—an overview of VR/SR software, what it is, how it’s used, what it can (and can't) do. Will include a demonstration.
• Critical Thinking Skills—learn how to think critically, problem-solve, recognize clues, and make good decisions as you transcribe and edit medical reports.
• Electronic Health Record Platform Demo—learn the complete story of what happens with an EHR, how narrative is included in the EHR, and find out where healthcare documentation specialists fit in.
• Finding a Job, Putting Your Best Foot Forward—find out what professional skills recruiters look for, how to craft a resume, prepare for an entry test, what paperwork to expect upon getting hired, professional phone and email etiquette.

Join us Thursday, August 1, for these great sessions as well as the opening keynote speaker, the AHDI Integrity Awards, browse the exhibit hall, and much more!

New Rule Protects Patient Privacy, Secures Health Information

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) moved forward today to strengthen the privacy and security protections for health information established under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

The final omnibus rule greatly enhances a patient’s privacy protections, provides individuals new rights to their health information, and strengthens the government’s ability to enforce the law.

"Much has changed in health care since HIPAA was enacted over fifteen years ago," said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. "The new rule will help protect patient privacy and safeguard patients' health information in an ever expanding digital age." Source: HHS.gov