On Wednesday, Great Bend Regional Hospital had updated training on the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act for area physicians and office staff members.

The HIPAA training was presented by Stephanie Oglesbee, RN nurse manager and educational coordinator at GBRH. HIPAA compliance rules and regulations were designed with the patient in mind. The purpose of the regulations are to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of patients’ personal health information.

Some of the highlights covered in the training were: who must follow these laws, what information is protected, and how is this information protected.

Stephanie Oglesbee, RN said, " It is our job to make sure that this is a priority for those patients entering our hospital for services."

HIPAA rules and regulations also apply within the medical clinic setting. Great Bend Regional Hospital is pleased offer to this training to area physician offices. Pam Chambers, Administrator states, "We value our partnership with our physicians and their office staff.. Offering important training and support only strengthens our relationship."