BAKERSFIELD MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Report ID: 0DQF11, California Department of Public Health

Reported Entity: BAKERSFIELD MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

Issue:

Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to protect one patient's (Patient A) confidential medical information. Findings:During an interview with the Risk Coordinator, on 6/18/13 at 10:36 AM, she stated during admission a patient decides who, if anyone, can get information about them. The patient decides on a pass code that the person must give in order to get the information. She also stated Nurse 1 checked the computer to see who could get information about Patient A; it indicated family and friends could get information. She further stated Nurse 1 did not check a separate screen which indicated the pass code. The Risk Coordinator stated when Nurse 1 entered Patient A's room, where his wife and other family members were visiting, she did not ask anyone for a pass code, but proceeded to talk about Patient A's medical condition in front of the visitors. The Risk Coordinator stated that Nurse 1 was re-educated on protected health information. The facility policy and procedure titled, "Patient's Family and Friends-Access to PHI and Use for Notification", dated January 2012, indicated, "If the patient is present or available...the Dignity Health Facility may disclose PHI (protected health information) to patient identified family and friends only if it: 1. has already obtained the patient's oral agreement or acknowledgment; 2. Informs the patient and provides an opportunity to orally object and the patient does not object..."

Outcome:

Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Patients' Rights