Question

Discuss the importance of protecting patient privacy.

Answer 1

Privacy is the right of individuals to control access to their person or information about themselves (about the person)

Healthcare professionals have always maintained patient confidentiality through ethical practices and codes of conduct.

After the introduction of technology in healthcare, the U.S federal government recognized the need for legislation to protect privacy in an electronic environment because of the popularity of health-related devices - i.e. mobile devices, EHR, sensors, biomedical devices, telehealth, personal health devices, and HIE's these put you at risk for data breach

#. HIPPA Privacy rule

Focused on the rights of the patients. Effects all organizations deemed to be "covered entities".

Minimum amount of information necessary. Access given to only those that absolutely need to know.

Protects personal information

Prevents personal health information from being distributed without notice or authorization (especially for reasons that have nothing to do with treatment or reimbursement).

Three reasons why privacy is needed are :-

1. Marketing - prevent marketing of unsolicited products or services based on harvested marketing data

2. Technology - info is quickly moved around networks, so HIPPA will hold violators accountable for interception of PHI

3. Genetic advancements - ex person not denied insurance bc could eventually get MS.

Ensuring privacy can promote more effective communication between physician and patient, which is essential for quality of care, enhanced autonomy, and preventing economic harm, embarrassment, and discrimination.