Enforcement of HIPAA standard compliance.

Covered healthcare providers, including covered dentists, will be expected to implement the newest version of the Healthcare Insurance Portability and Accountability Act standard electronic claims and related transactions by January 12, 2012, but enforcement is not expected to begin until March 1, 2012.

The federal government is conducting audits to ensure that medical providers and businesses are complying with the privacy; security and breach notification provisions of HIPAA. Go to www.proofpoint.com or e-mail [e-mail] to see a new brochure that will affect dental practices.

Joanne Wineinger, RDA, is the Ninth District Trustee for ADAA. She is a resident of Denton, Texas and was a practicing dental assistant for 45 years. Ms. Wineinger has been an ADAA member since 1962 and currently serves as TDAA Chairman of the Past President's Council and TDAA Executive Secretary.