Will I Need To Handle Confidential Information as a Unit Secretary?

 

As a unit secretary, one of my key responsibilities is maintaining the confidentiality of sensitive information. In this role, I'm privy to deeply personal patient information, medical records, and other sensitive data that must be handled carefully. I must always remain vigilant, following protocols for safeguarding this information.

Whether managing patient charts or responding to inquiries, I always prioritize protecting confidential data. Through my unwavering commitment to confidentiality, I help ensure that patients feel safe and supported throughout their time at the hospital. 

Snooping Security Guards Access Medical Records at Washington Hospital

Over 20 security guards at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital accessed the medical records of 419 patients without authorization in 2018. The guards viewed sensitive information, including names, dates of birth, medical record numbers, addresses, notes related to treatment, and insurance details, all through the hospital's EHR system.

As a result, Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital has been fined $240,000 and is required to update its policies and train employees to prevent future incidents. These actions were taken after a press release issued by the HHS on June 15.

The breach highlights the importance of secure access controls for personal health information and the consequences that can result when those controls are not properly enforced.

Even Though You Have Access (Video)

Even though you have access to the patients' personal private medical information, you shouldn't look at it. 

HIPAA is drummed into those of us who work in the medical field, but for some people, the fear of fines and possible jail time doesn't scare them. 

Celebrities and the Unit Secretary (Video)

When the news broke early Friday morning that President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were both diagnosed with the Coronavirus, people worldwide were concerned. 

When the President was admitted to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, people worldwide become troubled. 

Unit Secretaries must remember that President Trump, the leader of the free world, is also a celebrity and a person. His medical information and privacy should be everyone's number one priority. 

Jussie Smollett, HIPAA and the Unit Secretary (Video)

HIPAA is something that all Health Unit Coordinators have had drummed into us. HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) is United States legislation that provides data privacy and security provisions for safeguarding medical information. Fines can range from $100 to $50,000 per violation (or per record), with a maximum penalty of $1.5 million per year for each violation.

So, knowing all of this, why do workers continue to disregard it? 

Recently, a dozen workers were fired from Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago for accessing the medical records of actor Jussie Smollett, one of the stars of the television show Empire.

Don't risk your job, money and reputation over being nosey.

HIPAA and the Health Unit Coordinator (Video)

HIPAA is something that all Health Unit Coordinators have had drummed into us. HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996) is United States legislation that provides data privacy and security provisions for safeguarding medical information.

So even though we all know what HIPAA is, there are two things to be aware of when you are working.

Knowingly violating HIPAA and being asked to violate HIPAA.

How? 

Watch the video below.