On or around April 14, 2003, patients presenting for services at either the Richland Medical Center or The Richland Hospital, Inc. received an informational brochure. Details included in the brochure were their rights with respect to information use, the facilities' duty to protect patient privacy, and our information use practices with some examples. 

Why was this done? Both facilities were required to comply with the privacy regulations of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). These standards were designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of healthcare by standardizing the interchange of electronic data and protect the security and confidentiality of electronic health care information. This protection has been extended to include not only electronically generated or stored data, but information stored or exchanged in any medium, including verbal. 

So what did the facilities do to prepare for this? A joint task force met to make our compliance with these rules as pain free for customers as possible. We have explored and are developing a joint Notice of Privacy Practices so patients will not receive separate notices from each facility. Where it makes sense, several policies and procedures are being jointly developed. While some practices will be dealt with separately, these joint policies will not only make things easier for the customer, but also for the staff who frequently serve both facilities. Staff education on the updated privacy practices is mandatory and has begun for many of the hospital and clinic staff.

What changes can our customers expect? Expect to be asked more questions often to authorize release (also called disclosure) of your protected health information (PHI). Expect more concern on the part of health care providers to protect your health care information. Expect to receive a written notice of primacy practices from any health care provider, facility, or health plan with which you do business.

If you have any questions, call (608-647-6321) or email Cindy Chicker at The Richland Hospital, Inc.