Episode 44: How does the P.C.T. way save money & control costs for group practices? (with Roy Huggins and Liath Dalton)

Your patient’s confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of their therapy experience… so how do you ensure that all of your technology and softwares are HIPAA compliant without breaking the bank? That’s where Person Centered Tech comes in!

We’re chatting with Roy and Liath, the co-founders of Person Centered Tech, about their company and how they use technology and security as a lens to evaluate and update your operations for simplicity, usability, and cost effectiveness in your practice.

Roy  Huggins, LPC NCC was an independent web developer for many years before making the transition to a therapy private practice. He quickly found that the mental health profession needed expert guidance on technology topics. Roy founded Person-Centered Tech (PCT) in 2010 after helping answer a colleague’s questions about legal and ethical use of email. His research to answer that first question exposed him to the industry’s difficulties applying the HIPAA-mandated risk assessment perspective to issues of technology.

 Liath Dalton is PCT’s deputy director and a co-owner. As the group practice service plan manager, Liath is especially passionate about helping group practice leaders be resourced and supported in navigating the security compliance process and identifying the solutions and processes that meet the particular needs of their practices. Liath’s consultation area of expertise is focused on selecting the right combination of services and tech that not only meet the legal-ethical needs of mental health practices, but also the functionality, efficiency and cost-effectiveness needs as well.


Episode Highlights:

• The Intersection Between HIPAA Compliance & Financial Security
  • There is a usually a concern for an expense or cost for HIPAA violations/complaints
  • Having your practice set up on a robust security foundation from the start is optimal to make a greater impact on saving money in the long run
• There are a number of factors within your group practice that require HIPAA compliance, and some softwares for each function are more affordable than others
  • Team meetings, virtual sessions, online communication, etc.
  • It is essential to have the right tools to make sure you maintain your client’s confidentiality, but that shouldn’t have to break the bank
• How do you determine the most cost-effective and efficient services for your specific group practice?
  • Most therapists rely on their colleagues and other professionals in their community for suggestions on what services to use
  • While the services you’re being recommended may be great – they may not be the best fit for YOUR business – that’s where Person Centered Tech comes in!

Links & Resources:

Person Centered Tech
Group Practice Tech Podcast
Radical Acceptance by Tara Brach
Burnout by Emily Nagoski, PhD
GreenOak Accounting
Therapy For Your Money Podcast