Ready for the 42 CFR Rule? AHIMA Has the Tools to Help

Healthcare organizations face a critical deadline. By February 16, all healthcare entities, both Part 2 and non-Part 2 facilities, must comply with the updated 42CFR Part 2 Privacy Rule. The stakes are high: failure to comply puts patient privacy at risk and exposes organizations to significant regulatory penalties.

AHIMA has developed a comprehensive toolkit to guide your compliance journey. From interactive decision trees and customizable consent templates to on-demand webinars and step-by-step resource guides, these tools offer practical guidance in multiple formats to meet diverse learning needs. Whether you prefer visual workflows, detailed checklists, or expert-led video instruction, AHIMA's resources provide the clarity and confidence you need to navigate complex substance use disorder (SUD) privacy regulations.

Beyond Part 2 requirements, all healthcare entities must update their Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP) to reflect new patient rights, including the right to request confidential communications and restrictions on disclosures to health plans. AHIMA's 2026 NPP Template - the first comprehensive update since 2013 - addresses these critical changes, incorporating expanded patient rights, updated breach notification requirements, and clarified disclosure standards.

Here are your tools and resources for compliance:

• Navigating the Updated 42CFR Rule with the AHIMA Decision Tree Tool (January 14, 2026) – Step-by-step guidance, real-world scenarios, FAQs, and compliance checklists
• AHIMA's Customizable 42 CFR Consent Template – Comprehensive required elements with clear implementation instructions
• AHIMA’s 2026 Notice of Privacy Practices Template – Updated to reflect current regulatory requirements for ALL healthcare entities
• Watch Now: 42 CFR Part 2 Privacy Rule: Using AHIMA Decision Tree Tool webinar – Explores key changes and addresses common implementation challenges
• Behind the New 42 CFR Part 2 Rule: What It Means for Health Information Professionals – Journal of AHIMA article on the rule by Jennifer Mueller, MBA, RHIA, SHIMSS, FACHE, FAHIMA, FACHDM, AHIMA Senior Vice President, Health Information Career Advancement

As an AHIMA member, you have access to all these valuable resources. Non-members can join today to enjoy the same benefits. AHIMA templates are educational resources only; consult legal counsel to ensure organizational compliance.

Don't wait. The compliance deadline is firm - prepare your organization today!

Lakeisha Tolbert, MA, RHIA, CHPS, is Director of Health Information Practice Advancement at AHIMA.