Patient Privacy

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a federal privacy rule that took effect April 14, 2003. It gives patients more control over their health information and great protection of personal medical records. It also gives patients a choice of whether they want to be listed in the hospital's patient directory.

Patient Directory

The patient directory is used to refer callers or visitors to a patient's nurse or room. If the patient has chosen to be listed in the patient directory, callers and visitors must provide the patient's first and last name before the hospital can give out any information about the patient, including the patient's location. If the patient has chosen not to be listed in the directory, the hospital is not allowed by law to release any information to callers and visitors, including confirmation of the patient's presence in the hospital. Callers and visitors will be told that there is no information for a patient by that name.

Patient Options: Opt In

If you decide to be listed in the hospital's patient directory, friends or family calling or visiting will need to provide your first and last name before they will be connected to your room or told your room location.

Patient Options: Opt Out

If you decide not to be listed in the hospital's patient directory, no one (including family, friends and the media) will be able to find out if you are a patient in the hospital, your location or your condition. No flowers or mail can be delivered to you. Callers and visitors will be told that there is no information for a patient by that name.