Can a patient opt out of the health system directory?
Yes, in accordance of the Notice of Privacy Practices, a written request should be directed to Health Information Management Services for processing. Question: During inpatient case conference (forum to discuss a rehabilitation unit inpatient’s medical and rehabilitation progress) an insurance payer case manager is present to listen to the patient’s status. Is disclosure allowed? Answer: To the extent that the purpose and focus of PM&R inpatient case conference is to address patient care issues, rehabilitation progress, continuing care plans, eligibility issues, authorization, and payment issues, the functions are covered under “treatment and payment” and patient authorization is not needed. Disclosure tracking is not needed. Minimum necessary information should be disclosed. Organize case discussions so that insurance payer case managers only participate in cases relevant to their functions.
