I need help I have an essay due and I don't know how would write it... please help

Well, I can't give you the answers, but I can help guide you.

What do you think HIPAA means?

It protects patient privacy or information

Yes, it does. That's right. Now, who has to abide by HIPAA laws?

Person behind the counter meaning the health workers dealing with patients?

Oh, yes, but it reaches farther than that. It also depends on what context you are looking at. Are you talking about a hospital? Doctor's office? Pharmacy?

Hospital or a physicians' office

Okay, consider this... Everyone who has access to the patient information is bound by HIPAA. That means everyone from the secretary in the doctor's office to the radiologist, nurse, doctor, anesthesiologist, etc. in the hospital.

I am primarily a labor and delivery nurse, but also work in the ER. If a patient comes in to the ER by ambulance who is intoxicated, and the police show up later, am I allowed to tell them what this patient's alcohol level is if they ask?

If the police consent with the doctor or maybe yes co'z he's the police

if the police consent with the doctor or maybe yes co'z he's the police

Actually the answer is NO. We cannot discuss anything with anyone outside of the medical staff caring for the patient. The police would have to get an order for the laboratory to draw the blood.

You see, HIPAA is basically what used to be known as doctor/patient privilege. Nothing can be discussed with anyone who is not directly involved in the care of the patient without the patient's consent.

Now, if you will forgive me please, I worked a 14 hour shift last night and have to get some sleep as I am due to be back to work in 7 hours. I need to get me some beauty sleep.

Oh okay.. thank you so much.. have a good night :)

Please continue to post your answers and I will respond as I am able. There are some others here, as well, who are well versed in HIPAA as well.

Just curious... How is your essay going?

I wrote it and I found out tomorrow morning.. thank you for all your help! :)