HIPAA, the “Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996,” provides federal protection of patient health information. This HIPAA-related message is part of UNMC’s continued effort to educate employees. Today’s HIPAA message addresses informed consent.
Question: Smile. You’re on candid camera??
Answer:Before you ask someone to “smile” for that digital photo shoot, make sure you have the proper informed consent. Unlike the “candid camera-type shows” which provide entertainment for viewers of unsuspecting “participants,” our organization must always ensure participants are informed and have consented to the publication and distribution of their photo/video for educational, informational or media purposes. (This does not apply to pictures of the department potluck parties which are placed on the departmental bulletin boards.)
Any department seeking an audio-visual media production must verify that proper informed consent has been obtained to safeguard the right to privacy of all patients, staff and others involved in the production. Audio-visual media includes photographs, printed materials, television programs, video/audio recordings, video teleconferencing, Internet displays and other image transmission and/or displays.
For more information refer to: Policy 6030: Informed Consent of Media Production and Distribution Policy.
If you’re a manager, please ensure all of your employees are informed of the contents of these messages and how it applies to your work area. Some ways of sharing the information include discussions during staff meetings, printing and posting this message or asking your employees if they have any further questions.