Administrative & LegalQuestion 96 of 100
Two medical assistants are discussing a patient's positive test result in a crowded elevator. Why is this a problem?
a.It is an impermissible disclosure of protected health information that could be overheard by others
b.It is allowed as long as the patient's last name is not used
c.It is acceptable because both are employees of the same practice
d.It only becomes a violation if the patient personally hears the conversation
Explanation
Discussing identifiable patient information where others can overhear is an impermissible disclosure, regardless of whether the speakers are coworkers. Omitting the last name does not protect privacy when other details make the patient identifiable. A violation depends on the improper disclosure itself, not on whether the patient happens to hear it.
Law Reference: HIPAA Privacy Rule (45 CFR Part 164)Practice all 100 questions free — no signup required.
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