Author Topic: Is this a violation of HIPAA?  (Read 4701 times)

Alice Scott

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Is this a violation of HIPAA?
« on: March 01, 2008, 09:49:38 PM »
Question
Good Morning Alice,
I have recently been told that a front desk person can no longer put a person’s account (chart)  number on their check as it is a violation of HIPPA rules.

Is this now true?
Thank you!
Deborah

Answer
Deborah,
   Wow, that’s a new one to me!  The only way that I know of for that to be a violation is if the chart # contains name, ss#, dob, etc.  Seriously, if the chart # gives away personal info, then it shouldn’t be used, but the chart numbers we use give away less info than the info already preprinted on the check.  Many people read way too far into the HIPAA thing.  The check is going to be deposited into the bank, and from there no one with access to the check would have access to your patient charts to ever match it up.  I think you are safe to continue writing the chart # on the check.  If you wanted to take it one step farther, don’t write “chart#” then how would anyone know what the chart # actually was other than your staff.

Alice
« Last Edit: March 01, 2008, 10:12:37 PM by Alice Scott »
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Is this a violation of HIPAA?
« on: March 01, 2008, 09:49:38 PM »