Sharing Information with a Family Member or Friend
HIPAA mandates that professionals like doctors, nurses, and institutions such as hospitals and nursing homes safeguard your health information. Yet, if you consent, providers or health plans can share relevant details with family or friends involved in your care or its payment under specific situations.
Your health care provider may share personal information face-to-face, over the phone, or in writing.
Examples
- If you invite a friend into the treatment room, an emergency room doctor might discuss your treatment with them.
- If your adult daughter accompanies you to an appointment and queries the bill, the doctor's office might address her concerns.
- If attended by a health aide, a doctor might discuss required medications with them.
- After a hospital visit, a doctor might share mobility concerns with your sister driving you home.
- With your approval, a nurse can discuss your health with your brother. However, if you specify NOT wanting your family informed, they should remain unaware.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-5. When may a provider discuss a patient's health care with a family member, friend, or other person?
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