A Delphi Study of Hipaa Compliance to Battlefield Medical Evacuation

The purpose of this research was to examine the impact of HIPAA compliance on the Battlefield Medical Evacuation process. Specifically, this thesis sought to answer three research questions addressing the current Battlefield Medical Evacuation process and current HIPAA considerations for each step of the process. The research questions were answered through the use of the Delphi Technique. Eight experts, representing Air Force, Army and Civilian medical communities participated in two rounds of the Delphi Technique. The research identified how HIPAA compliance is handled now and identified suggested improvements. An original model of the battlefield medical evacuation process was developed, and this was presented to the Delphi group for changes and acceptance. The group was then tasked to identify the application of the HIPPA requirements at each stage of the model.