1. Privileged Communications
HTR

2. Privileged communication
definition-all information given to HCW by the patient
PHI-Protected Health Information
IT’s A LAW-must be KEPT CONFIDENTIAL

3. Can you share patient information
Information must only be shared with the patient’s healthcare team.
The patient must provide written consent to share health information with people outside their healthcare team.
Consent must include: What information is being released, to whom it’s being released, and any time limits

4. Consent to share PHI
Some information is exempt by law and must be reported:
births and deaths
injuries caused by violence
drug abuse
communicable disease
STDs

5. Health Care Records or EHR
Most facilities use Electronic Health Records (EHR) to document patient information. However, paper records still exist.
The records belong to the HCF but patients have a right to obtain a copy of any information in the record.

6. Health Care Records=LEGAL DOCUMENT
erasures not allowed-must cross out with single line, insert correct info, date and initial.
must be stored properly in a locked and secure area
kept confidential
retained for length of time required by law
shredded/incinerated if destroyed after legal retention time

7. HIPAA
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (1996) required the
US Dept of Health and Human Services (USDHHS) establish standards to protect health information.
PROTECTS information that Identifies a Patient

8. Privacy Rule
USDHHS published the Privacy Rule which went into effect in 2003.
must be able to obtain copies of their health care records
be given information about how the HCP uses their health information
allowed to set limits on how information is used
right to state who has access and limit access to their information including family
given information on how to file a privacy violation complaint

9. Technology and Health Information
Use of Computers
limiting access
log-on ID and password protection