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May 14, 2008
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Receives URAC HIPAA Privacy Accreditation
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana has been awarded HIPAA Privacy Accreditation from URAC, a Washington, D.C.-based healthcare accrediting organization that establishes quality standards for the healthcare industry.
“URAC standards for quality in healthcare management are recognized nationally,” said Gery J. Barry, BCBSLA president and CEO. “At a time when many people are concerned that companies are mishandling their personal information, we have chosen to be a leader and demonstrate that we protect customer data in accordance with best practices.” URAC’s HIPAA Privacy Accreditation program enables healthcare organizations to display a commitment to fair information practices and demonstrate that they have taken the necessary steps to protect health information privacy in accordance with the HIPAA Privacy Rule. Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana has held the HIPAA Privacy accreditation since 2003. It is one of only two Blue plans to obtain HIPAA Privacy accreditation and one of only 10 companies nationwide to receive such recognition. “By applying for and receiving HIPAA Privacy Accreditation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana has demonstrated a commitment to quality healthcare,” said Alan P. Spielman, URAC president and CEO. “Quality healthcare is crucial to our nation’s welfare and it is important to have organizations that are willing to measure themselves against national standards.” The accreditation program is designed to be relevant to all organizations that create, receive, maintain or transmit electronic protected health information and/or are expected to comply with the HIPAA Security Rule. About URAC About Blue Cross
URAC is an independent, nonprofit organization and a leader in promoting healthcare quality through accreditation and certification programs. URAC’s standards keep pace with the rapid changes in the healthcare system and provide a mark of distinction for healthcare organizations to demonstrate their commitment to quality and accountability. Through its broad-based governance structure and an inclusive standards development process, URAC ensures that all stakeholders are represented in setting standards for the healthcare industry. For more information, visit www.urac.org.
Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana is Louisiana-owned and -operated. Marking its 74th anniversary this year, the company is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. It is a tax-paying mutual company, owned by its policyholders. Headquartered in Baton Rouge, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana also has district offices in Alexandria, Houma, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe, New Orleans and Shreveport. The company’s subsidiaries include HMO Louisiana, Inc. and Southern National Life Insurance Company, Inc.