Dr. Patrick O’Connor
It is unfortunately quite frequent that in our roles as care providers we look after our own colleagues and public figures.
I write to remind all that when ill, public figures and our colleagues and their families, expect not only the best care that we provide but also the same confidentiality and privacy that everyone deserves when recovering.
To this end there are general issues of respect for privacy (i.e., no visitors and limited information) which we MUST respect as determined by the family and care team.
We also appreciate that our physicians, clinicians and administrative staff understand they are to only access patient care information (e.g. medical records, PCIS, lab results, MI) only where required for the provision of care to our patients.
Furthermore, our staff understands they are not to discuss, or share any patient care information unless required for the provision of care.
Regrettably despite VCH’s Patient Confidentiality Policy and frequent education regarding the importance of preserving patient confidentiality, we have investigated two occasions in the past months where VCH individuals have improperly accessed and shared patient care information for no clinical purposes. One of these cases involved a physician who discussed the patient care information with others for a person not under the care of the physician.
This memo is to remind all that the privacy of our patients, clients and residents must be respected and that any breaches of VCH’s Patient Confidentiality Policy will result in discipline up to and including revocation of privileges/employment where the circumstances warrant.
Please note that our Privacy Office conducts random audits of patient records to ensure compliance with our policy and goals of preserving every VCH basic right to “strict confidentiality of their patient information”.