Which is NOT a common cause of a breach?
Not logging off
Sharing passwords
Discussing treatment plan with client’s doctor
Discussing patient information in public
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is Discussing treatment plan with client’s doctor.
Explanation:
A breach of patient confidentiality refers to the unauthorized sharing or exposure of sensitive patient information. In healthcare settings, breaches typically occur when personal health information (PHI) is not properly protected or is shared without proper consent. Here’s why the other options are common causes of a breach, while discussing a treatment plan with a client’s doctor is not:
- Not logging off:
When healthcare providers fail to log off from their systems or devices, they leave patient information accessible to unauthorized individuals. This is a direct violation of patient confidentiality and can lead to a breach. In healthcare, it is critical to ensure that all digital access points are secured after use, including logging off from electronic health records (EHR) systems. - Sharing passwords:
Sharing passwords for EHRs or other confidential systems is another major cause of breaches. When multiple individuals use the same login credentials, it compromises the security of patient information. It is essential for healthcare professionals to use unique, secure passwords and to avoid sharing them to maintain patient confidentiality. - Discussing patient information in public:
Sharing patient information in public places, such as cafeterias, hallways, or elevators, is a clear violation of HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) regulations. Patient information must be kept private, and discussions involving sensitive information should only occur in confidential settings where unauthorized individuals cannot overhear the conversation. - Discussing treatment plan with client’s doctor:
This is not a breach, as long as it occurs within the bounds of the healthcare provider-patient confidentiality agreement. Healthcare providers are allowed to share treatment plans with other authorized medical professionals, including the patient’s doctor, to ensure coordinated care. Such discussions are essential for the patient’s health and safety and are permitted under confidentiality rules as long as both parties are involved in the patient’s care.
In summary, sharing information appropriately within a healthcare team is vital for quality patient care, while the other actions are direct threats to patient confidentiality.