|
directory
information (HIPAA)
HIPAA's Privacy
Rule allows inpatient health care facilities to continue
to maintain "directories" of current patients, but
restricts the information in them to the following:
- location in
the facility;
- "condition
described in general terms, that does not communicate specific
medical information"; and
Except for religious
affiliation, the information may be disclosed to anyone who
asks for the individual by name. Religious affiliation information
may be disclosed to members of the clergy.
No authorization
is required for disclosure of such limited information. However,
this is one of the kinds of information use about which patients
must be informed in advance, and given an opportunity to prohibit
or restrict the practice. Oral notice, and an oral agreement
or objection in response, is sufficient according to the regulations,
but most facilities will elect to put this in a formal "consent"
form.
In emergency circumstances
where it is not possible to give an individual an opportunity
to object, directory information disclosures can be made if
the provider feels it would be in the best interests of the
patient, and no prior expressed preference of the individual
to the contrary is known. An opportunity to object must be
provided as soon as is practical.
See also:
|
