We can all help keep patient information secure and private.
In today’s world we are bombarded with information. The internet makes it easy to post news and information and Twitter can keep us up-to-date on happenings at lightning speed. It’s no wonder we value quiet time and privacy, and in healthcare, privacy is critically important.
We are all aware of HIPAA – the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. We know that it is essential that we keep our patient’s information private and secure. Too often we see news reports of information related to celebrities that have been leaked to the press from inside a hospital.
It is important that we all make every attempt to keep patient information private. And, there are new policies and guidelines that impact how we verify the identity of our patients.
Approximately 10 million Americans have their identities stolen each year, according to the Federal Trade Commission. In their 2006 identity theft survey, approximately 250,000 Americans reported that another person had used their identity to fraudulently obtain medical treatment, services or supplies.
This month, the Medical Center, along with other healthcare institutions and organizations across the country is implementing new policies and procedures to prevent, identify and report identity theft.
The three keys to these guidelines are:
First, Prevent identity theft from occurring by safeguarding information.
Second, Detect identity theft by looking for suspicious activities.
Third, Report identity theft as soon as it is suspected
When identity theft occurs in a health care setting, more than an individual’s credit history can be impacted. Their medical record is breached as well and improper care can take place due to incorrect information in the record.
Our patients are now being asked to provide photo identification at many entry points in our system including primary care offices, the Emergency Department and registration. This is one of the ways we can help guard against identity theft, but it will take all of us being vigilant each day.
You can learn more about how you can help protect patient and coworker identity on OneSource.
Thanks for all you do to protect the privacy of everyone here at the Medical Center. It is one more way we are improving people’s lives.
Well, have a great week.