OHCP is pleased to share a meaningful update about UConn Health’s management of the upcoming expiration of the federal COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE), expiring May 11, 2023.

During the PHE, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) eased certain regulatory requirements for healthcare providers and institutions to better deliver healthcare in unprecedented circumstances. Over the next several months, UConn Health anticipates adjusting the policies and regulatory flexibilities utilized during the PHE in accordance with applicable requirements and guidance.

With the PHE now ending, UConn Health organized a multidisciplinary workgroup to develop a roadmap for the transition and provide additional communications on updates and further guidance. For a helpful summary of the topics requiring changes, and for which you can expect more information to come, please refer to the UConn Health COVID-19 PHE Roadmap.

We appreciate the hard work and sacrifices made during the pandemic, and we look forward to working together during this transition.

May 1, 2023, the effective date of the revised UConn Health Notice of Privacy Practices (the “Notice”), is approaching!

When and where will the updated Notice be available?

On or slightly before May 1, 2023, expect to see the following:

• Replacement of the Notice in patient-facing locations throughout UConn Health;
• A content update to the linked Notice on UConn Health websites (including Spanish);
• A printable version of the Notice available in Epic; and
• Updated content available through the Design & Document Production Center.

Why did the Notice change?

Updates to the revised Notice address changes in applicable requirements and aim to improve transparency about allowable uses and disclosures of protected health information, including the exchange of information among healthcare providers and with Connecticut’s Health Information Exchange (“Connie”).

What do you need to do?

Stay tuned! The Office of Healthcare Compliance & Privacy (OHCP) will send another communication once the updated Notice is in place. Please feel welcome to contact OHCP with any questions or concerns.

Thanks in advance for your assistance!