Laws/Privacy
What is HIPAA?
Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act
You receive a call from a patient's spouse asking for lab results. You should do this before sharing any information.
You should verify that you have the patients written consent.
If a court issues this, patient information must legally be disclosed.
Subpoena
True or False: It’s acceptable to talk about a patient’s condition with a coworker in an elevator if the coworker is involved in the patient’s care.
False
True or False: A medical assistant can discuss a patient's condition with family members without patient consent.
False
This type of consent is implied when a patient rolls up their sleeve for a blood draw.
Implied consent
In cases of suspected child abuse, medical assistants are required to report it under these laws.
Mandatory reporting
This document, often signed at the first visit, informs patients how their information will be used and shared.
Notice of Privacy Practices (NPP)
What is patient confidentiality?
Leaving a patient's chart visible in a public area can violate this principle.
If a patient is a minor, consent to release their information is usually required from this individual.
Parent/legal guardian
Reporting certain communicable diseases, like tuberculosis or HIV, to public health authorities is an example of this exception.
Public Health Reporting
If a patient’s friend asks for information about their condition without written consent, you must respond with this.
"I’m sorry, I cannot disclose any information without the patient's authorization"?