Explain confidentiality and its connection to HIPAA.

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:

• Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act Links to an external site. (HIPAA)