How you can use your health data

On March 9, 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released the Interoperability and Patient Access final rule. This rule requires Medicare Advantage plans to implement a secure application programming interface (commonly known as an “API”) that gives Medicare members easy access to their health information.

At Sharp Health Plan, we’re working hard to make sure our API is secure, reliable and easy for you to use. Please check back for more information.

Keep your information safe

In order to keep your personal health information safe, you must take an active role in protecting it. Follow these safety precautions when viewing and managing your information.

• Never access your health or financial information on a public Wi-Fi network, such as at a public library or coffee shop.
• Use a unique username and password for each of your devices and accounts.
• Update your passwords regularly. Do not use the same password for multiple accounts.
• Choose PINs that do not show up in your wallet. For example, do not use your birthdate or address.
• Keep up with software updates. These updates include regular security patches to help safeguard your information.

Protect yourself from scams, fraud and abuse

Staying informed and keeping your information secure is key to protecting yourself and others from scams, fraud and abuse. Here are tips to avoid potential fraud and abuse.

1. Keep your ID cards and personal information secure at all times.
2. Be alert for recent health care scams. Television, newspapers, social media and trusted sources online can provide you with credible information on recent schemes.
3. Review your health care documents to ensure they are accurate.

If you suspect that you may have been involved in a fraud or abuse incident, or if you receive information that isn’t what you expected or doesn’t make sense to you, report it right away.

• Call Customer Care using the number on your Sharp Direct Advantage member ID card
• Call 1-800-MEDICARE
• Contact Sharp Health Plan’s Compliance team at SHPCompliance@sharp.com

What is HIPAA?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, also known as HIPAA, is the federal law that sets rules for health care providers and health insurance companies, like Sharp Health Plan, on who can look at and receive your health information. Your health information can be used and shared for specific reasons, not directly related to your care, like making sure doctors give good care, making sure nursing homes are clean and safe, reporting when the flu is in your area, or reporting as required by state and federal law.

HIPAA regulations protect and secure your health information when it is held by your health care provider (such as your doctor or hospital) or Sharp Health Plan. HIPAA does not apply to your health information once you authorize a third party to access it.

Questions?

For general questions about sharing your health information, contact Customer Care using the number on your Sharp Direct Advantage member ID card.

If you are an app developer and have questions, please contact interop@sharp.com for assistance.

Sharp Direct Advantage is offered by Sharp Health Plan. Sharp Health Plan is an HMO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment with Sharp Health Plan depends on contract renewal. Read the full disclaimer.

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