health law notes

business basics for the health care professional

How quickly can you set up a corporation for my practice?” the physician asked the attorney over the telephone.

“Why do you want to incorporate?” the attorney asked in return.

health reform and the supreme court

“If the lawyers are having fun, what does that say about federal health care reform?” joked the physician to his health care lawyer. “Democracy at work and a new car,” retorted the lawyer.

top ten issues for 2012

While no top ten list from the desk of a health lawyer could be complete given the ever-changing nature of the health care industry, here are a few significant legal issues to think about this year.

the patient and the driver’s license

“We need to make a copy of your driver’s license,” insisted the young front desk assistant at the doctor’s office. “Why?” asked the reluctant gray-haired patient. “Well, this is just something we are required to do for HIPAA,” responded the assistant. “Really? What if I do not let you?” the patient huffed.

Fall In Review

“What has happened in health care since the end of summer?” asked the wayfaring senior partner. “Seriously?” responded the frustrated junior associate.

A. Health reform plods along.

Much of what dominates the health care industry these days is