HIPAA

Privacy Policy in Phoenix Metropolitan Area

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

HIPAA is the acronym for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act that was signed by President Bill Clinton and enacted on August 21, 1996, and by the United States Congress. The Act defines policies, procedures, and guidelines for maintaining the privacy and security of individually identifiable health information as well as outlining numerous offenses relating to health care and sets civil and criminal penalties for violations. Specific regulations of the Act require health care providers and organizations to develop procedures and policies that ensure the confidentiality and security of protected health information (PHI) of clients when that information is received, transferred, transmitted, and shared. The Act also regulates and stipulates guidelines to improve portability and continuity of health insurance coverage in the group and individual markets, to combat waste, fraud, and abuse in health insurance and health care delivery. HIPAA requires the protection and confidential handling of protected health information including patient health information, demographic information, physical or mental health, health care payment provisions, and client identity. At the same time, the Privacy Rule is balanced so that it permits the disclosure of health information needed for patient care and other important purposes.

Typical Examples of HIPAA Violations

• Discussing Client private health information in public places
• Disclosing client’s information to family, friends, or any unauthorized person (s)
• Leaving a computer unattended and not logging out thereby exposing client information exposed to the public
• Releasing wrong patient information
• Improper disposal of patient/client records
• Releasing client information to undesignated party(s)
• Employees or unauthorized family members viewing client’s information

Confidentiality of Client Information

Individuals in our care expect us to maintain the confidentiality and security of all their Protected Health Information (PHI). Jannic Home Care does not use, disclose, or discuss client-specific information with others unless the client authorizes the release of his or her information, or we are required or authorized by law to release the information. Jannic Home Care maintains the confidentiality of client medical information and uses appropriate security measures to protect this information, including information contained in client personal files. Jannic Home Care also uses appropriate security measures of PHI in all communications.