COMPUTERIZED MEDICAL RECORDS AND PATIENT CONFIDENTIALITY
There are few things more private than your medical records. Those in the medical field, including hospitals, doctors, dentists and even insurance companies have a duty to protect your confidential medical information. With the trend towards computerizing medical records for efficiency purposes, also comes the ability of thieves and hackers to get at such sensitive information. Currently, in the event of a breach, the keeper of medical records must notify the federal government, but only if that breach affects over 500 patients.
The recent federal stimulus bill passed by the Senate in early February 2010 intends to make billions of dollars available for the computerization of medical files. As with any initiative involving confidential information, the fear exists that such information will end up in the wrong hands or be used for the wrong purposes. Although computerized records can assist in a patient's ability to receive more comprehensive medical care, computerized records are more susceptible to theft. As a patient, you should inquire with your health care providers about how they are maintaining and storing your medical information. You should always be asked to sign a consent form that conforms with HIPAA Privacy Rules before any medical provider shares your information.
