Essay On Confidentiality In A Medical Office

Confidentiality is very important in a medical office. Ethics alone is a major reason why employees should value patients’ private information. Breaching of confidential communication is considered violating HIPAA, which can lead to paying fines. There are policies that restrict office workers from releasing information. You also can make sure you have the proper authorization to release information. There are some situations where you have to release information, such as: a suspect in a criminal case, when records are subpoenaed, child abuse, or gunshot wounds. HIPAA sets guidelines for divulging information, if not properly filed for not only may you have to pay fines but you may lose your job and your good standing in your career for
In the office environment there are other people in the office you cannot leave a patients information laying around. Your desk should be kept neat, files locked away, and excess notes/papers shredded. When you access your computer it should always password protected and you should never leave it opened and unattended. If you use a scanner or a copy machine you should always make sure you remove the document and return it to its proper place. You also have to maintain confidentiality by how you a patients information. If you receive a phone call you can question them on their personal information on file. If you to call a patient and don’t receive an answer when you leave a message don’t give any information about the patient only you contact information. If you are asked to release a patient’s information you should ask for a signed verified documentation. Knowing all of your privacy policies and having them on hand is another great way to practice confidentiality. Confidentiality is very important in a medical office. Ethics is one of the best ways to set standards of privacy. Hiding a patient’s information is important. Use caution when giving information out. Always take careful care in maintaining