Electronic Medical Record Privacy

Writen by Kent Pinkerton

Electronic medical records are meant to enhance the provision of medical care. In order to be most effective, such records need to describe each patient as comprehensively as possible. They may therefore contain information about lifestyle factors, such as engaging in high-risk sports, or smoking. Sensitive information on medications and clinical conditions are also recorded, as are risk factors for various diseases.

To protect patient privacy and to prevent misuse of confidential and potentially sensitive information, the US Congress passed the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) in 1996, and a more stringent Privacy Rule went into effect in 2003. HIPAA sets required national standards for medical records, guarantees patients the right to see their own medical records, and requires providers to inform patients how their medical information is used and disclosed. However, there are still ways for interested parties to gain access to medical records.

Patient information in medical records can be accessed by a number of entities. Insurance companies often require a release of medical information before they issue a policy or make a payment on a patient's behalf. Insurance companies may, in turn, share certain medical information with other financial institutions. Under federal law, insurance companies are required to allow clients to opt out of sharing their information with other companies. Many insurance companies in the United States also share and access medical information through the Medical Information Bureau. While information in the Bureau database is not governed by HIPAA, anyone listed in the database is entitled to a free report and the right to have any incorrect information corrected.

If an individual is on any form of government-sponsored medical assistance, such as Medicare, Social Security Disability or Worker's Compensation, his or her medical records can be accessed by government agencies. In addition to insurance companies and the government, current and future employers can also gain access to medical records under certain conditions.

Electronic Medical Records provides detailed information on Electronic Medical Records, Electronic Medical Record Software, Electronic Medical Record Systems, Electronic Medical Record Companies and more. Electronic Medical Records is affiliated with HIPAA Laws.