Medical Security

Application Assignment 04 2

Not having worked in the health care profession before it was rather tedious to compose a

list of guidelines for a safe work environment for patients to help limit the number of

liability suits. With so many areas of liability in the health care industry I focused my

guidelines on the rising use of computers and online communications.

The legal rules, ethical guidelines and professional etiquette that govern and guide

safety and communications between the health care provider and patient are equally

applicable to email, websites, and other electronic services and communications. The

technology of online communications introduces special concerns and risks for patient

and health care provider.

1. Confidentiality. The healthcare provider is responsible for taking reasonable

steps to protect patient’s privacy and to guard against unauthorized access to and /or use

patient healthcare information. This also extends to the network services required by

HIPAA.

Privacy and Security. Online communications between healthcare provider and

patients should be conducted on a secure network line, with provisions for privacy and

security in accordance with HIPAA.

Authentication. Healthcare providers have the responsibility for taking steps

to authenticate the identity of correspondent(s) in electronic communication and to

ensure that recipients of information are authorized to receive it.

Application Assignment 04 3

2. Unauthorized Access to Computers. This can compromise patient

information by giving access to anyone using that terminal. Practices should established

and followed to guard against unauthorized access to computers with technology such as

automatic log-out and password protection.

3. Information Consent. Before to the initiation of online communication

between the healthcare provider and patient, informed consent should be obtained from

the patient regarding the appropriate use and limitations of this type of communications.

the healthcare provider should develop and adhere to specific written guidelines for

online communications with patients.

4. Pre-Existing Patient Relationship. The healthcare provider may increase their

liability by initiating a healthcare provider/patient relationship online. Also, payment for

healthcare services my further increase liability exposure. Online communication may

best be suited for patients previously seen and evaluated in the office setting.

5. Licensing Jurisdiction. The online communication between the healthcare

provider and patient are subject to state licensures. The communication with a patient

outside the state for which the healthcare provider is not licensed, may increase the for

higher liability.

Application Assignment 04 4

6. Sensitive Subject Matter. The healthcare provider should advise the patient

of the risk that information the patient may consider sensitive may be inadvertently

accessed by someone not authorized to view it. The healthcare provider should seek

the patient’s approval prior to doing any electronic transfer of any medical information

pertaining to the patient.

7. Patient Education/Care