I am a certified coder, auditor, and educator who communicates with coders on a regular basis. As an individual deeply involved in the medical coding industry and as a patient myself, I have witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects of outsourcing our medical records to foreign coders and companies. This is not only an issue of job security for our local AAPC and AHIMA trained coders but also one that threatens the privacy and safety of all US citizens.

Our current system allows foreign entities to code and read US medical records. This practice has led to many qualified American coders losing their jobs or struggling to find employment in their field. More importantly, it raises serious concerns about HIPAA compliance and the safeguarding of sensitive health information.

According to HIPAA Journal, healthcare data breaches are on the rise with 2020 seeing a 25% increase compared to 2019 (HIPAA Journal). The risk increases when data is handled by entities outside of US jurisdiction where different standards may apply.

The outsourcing trend is not only detrimental for our economy but also poses significant risks regarding patient privacy. It's time we prioritize American workers who are well-trained under strict guidelines set by AAPC and AHIMA while ensuring that sensitive health information remains within our borders where it can be protected by US laws.

We urge lawmakers to take immediate action against this practice which compromises both job security for American workers in the healthcare sector as well as patient privacy rights. Please sign this petition if you believe in protecting American jobs while maintaining high standards for handling sensitive health information.