We've managed similar to Scott's explanation below. However, the
provider for that visit was also included in those who could access the
record. And, after a considerable period of time, months to a couple of
years, we "unsealed" the record. These have typically been high
profile, criminal cases involving patients who were victims and records
that most certainly would be subpoenaed. Also, an employee who was a
victim of rape asked that her record be sealed.
We do not have a policy in place per se, but I'm meeting with the HIM
director tomorrow, so I think we'll discuss this.
We have rarely used this option due to the risk of information being
unavailable in the future and potential negative effect on treatments
and outcomes. House supervisors are included in those who can access
the record, but of course, you have to know there is a sealed record to
know that you're missing the information which adds to the dilemma.
Jackie Welch RN BSN
Clinical Systems Manager
Information Systems
Great River Health Systems
1221 South Gear Avenue
West Burlington, Iowa 52655
319.768.4417
[EMAIL PROTECTED] <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
http://www.greatrivermedical.org/ <http://www.greatrivermedical.org/>
-----Original Message-----
From: Vint, Heather [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 1:29 PM
To: Scott A. Ellner; [EMAIL PROTECTED];
[email protected]
Subject: RE: Sealing of records
Please post responses.
-----Original Message-----
From: Scott A. Ellner
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Sent: Tuesday, November 28, 2006 11:36 AM
To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [email protected]
Subject: Sealing of records
Does anyone have a policy (or thoughts on the subject)
about sealing records? We have a few instances were we felt compelled
to seal a patient' s record. Those who can access the sealed record are
the Privacy Officer, Information Security Officer, Risk Manager, Medical
Records Director, and nursing house supervisors. We added house
supervisors out of concern the patient could return for treatment and
nursing needed a means to gain access to the record. Additionally we
sealed just the visit in question not the entire record.
Do you seal records? If so what has your experience
been?
Michael Ward, PMP, CPHIMS, FHIMSS
Director, Information Services
Anderson Hospital
6800 State Route 162
Maryville, IL 62062
618-288-5711 x399
618-288-8985 (fax)
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
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