Explanation should include

types of patient information that must be kept confidential (e.g., demographic data, medical records, test results, appointment information, financial information)
formats of patient information that must be kept confidential (e.g., printed data, handwritten data, electronic data, X-ray, and other test reports)
how the information is stored to ensure privacy
the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality in and away from the workplace
the need to inform patients of their right to privacy
the role of HIPAA in legally mandating patient privacy across the United States.

Process/Skill Questions:

What types of patient information are considered confidential?
What initiated the need for HIPAA? How has this legislation influenced the healthcare industry?
What types of patient information can be released to other healthcare providers and third-party payers?

Teacher Resource: