FAQ
How is pingmd® different than text?
pingmd is secure. It’s not safe to text PHI("protected health information") at any point in time. With pingmd you can still send quick, text-like messages that save time and make you more efficient.
Do I need to have a password?
Yes. This ensures that only you have access to your account. Think of it like logging into your bank account. PHI deserves the same protection.
Why does the app automatically log me out?
For your safety. You’re communicating about PHI on pingmd, so automatic logout is an added layer of protection in the event your phone is lost or misplaced.
How many people can I connect to?
As many as you need. To be most efficient, invite and connect to everyone in your healthcare network and keep all of your professional communication in one place.
What if my colleagues are not on pingmd®?
Invite them! If you need to communicate securely with a colleague, you can send an invitation right from the app. It’s free for them to join and ping securely with you.
Can I communicate with a group?
Yes. Create as many groups as you need: care teams, specialty teams, staff groups, resident groups. Creating groups is easy and makes communication efficient.
Where is my data stored?
Your data is stored on our servers. Rest assured it’s safe and secure.
How long is my data stored?
We store your data indefinitely. We value your communication record as much as you do.
Can I replace my call service?
You can use pingmd to have patients contact you after hours, reducing call service costs. The choice is up to you.
Can I use this just for my office and colleagues?
Yes. pingmd is flexible. You can use it with any combination of colleagues, staff and patients.
How does this replace a portal?
It doesn’t. Instead pingmd differentiates, simplifies and makes communication more efficient replacing calls and emails with patients and colleagues.
Does it work with any EMR?
Any ping communication can be uploaded to your EMR as a PDF.
How do I download the PING to my EMR?
Downloading a PDF communication is a paid feature, but it’s as simple as clicking a button. Contact us to learn more.
What is PHI?
PHI is individually identifiable health information that can be linked to a particular person. Specifically, this information can relate to:
• The individual's past, present or future physical or mental health or condition
• The provision of health care to the individual
• The past, present, or future payment for the provision of health care to the individual
What is HIPAA and the HIPAA security rule?
HIPAA is the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. Whereas the HIPAA Privacy Rule deals with PHI in general, the HIPAA Security Rule (SR) deals with electronic PHI (ePHI).
What is HITECH?
The HITECH Act is a section of the ARRA (American Recovery and Reinvestment Act) that spells out new privacy and security requirements, including breach notification requirements for both Covered Entities (CEs) and Business Associates (BAs) that store or exchange PHI.
How do I contact pingmd® if I have further questions?
You can email us at support@pingmd.com, ping the Pingmd Support within the application, or call us at 646-808-5956.
