If a patient who is the friend or relative of an employee seeks treatment at our facility, can the employee share information with other relatives or friends?
HIPAA Weekly Advisor, June 12, 2006
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The employee's role depends on his or her relationship with the patient. If the employee's husband or child is hospitalized, it would be appropriate for him or her to act as the next-of-kin and share information with other relatives and friends, in concert with the patient's wishes. On the other hand, if a friend is hospitalized, the employee should refer any questions about the patient's condition to the patient or a relative who is acting as the patient's spokesperson.
Editor's note: Mary Brandt, president of Bellaire, TX-based Brandt & Associates, LLC, answered this question. This is not legal advice. Consult your attorney for legal matters.
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