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This is the eight episode in the 8-part series, Health Information Privacy and Security Policies and Procedures orientation training.

Welcome Back to the Privacy Procedure Orientation Training series!

This training series is part of the Health Information Privacy and Security Policies and Procedures that your clinic has purchased.

In this final episode, we’ll explore the policies and procedures related to patient communication in your clinic’s Health Information Privacy and Security Manual. With the rise of digital health, new methods for engaging patients are now available, but it’s essential to ensure that these technologies respect privacy, confidentiality, and security.

The Role of Digital Health in Patient Communication

Many electronic health records (EHR) systems now offer functionalities that enhance communication between patients and healthcare providers beyond traditional face-to-face consultations. These digital tools provide real-time access to health information, which can improve both workflow efficiency and patient engagement.

However, we must ensure that health information is collected, used, and disclosed responsibly, following appropriate privacy procedures. This begins with informing patients about how their information will be collected and used. Custodians have a legal obligation to apply reasonable safeguards in all forms of patient communication.

Internet-Enabled Patient Communication Tools

Patients are interested in access to their health information and digital health opportunities. Often, these opportunities can offer improved workflow and efficiencies to the healthcare provider, too. Engaged patients can realize greater health benefits.

Common internet-enabled initiatives include:

  • Patient portals for accessing health records
  • Online appointment booking
  • Appointment reminders via text, phone, or email
  • E-referral reminders between patients and providers

These tools allow patients to access their information easily and improve communication with healthcare providers. However, custodians must evaluate the risks and benefits of these solutions, ensuring that privacy is always protected.

Evaluating Digital Health Communication

Before implementing any internet-enabled communication tools, it’s important to conduct a thorough evaluation of the technology, vendors, and stakeholders involved. This helps ensure that your clinic can balance the benefits of digital health with the responsibility of maintaining patient privacy and security.

Policies to Review

Be sure to carefully review the relevant privacy procedures in your manual. Your clinic may use some or all of the following:

  • Patient Online Appointment Booking
  • Appointment Reminders via Text Messaging
  • Patient Portals
  • E-Referral Reminders

These procedures will help ensure that your clinic is compliant with privacy laws and professional standards when using digital communication tools.

Conclusion of the Policy and Procedure Orientation Series

This concludes our policy and procedure orientation training series. If you have any questions, be sure to discuss them with your supervisor, clinic manager, privacy officer, or healthcare provider.

Don’t Have Written Privacy Policies and Procedures Yet?

If your clinic hasn’t yet purchased the Health Information Privacy and Security Policies and Procedures templates from Information Managers Ltd., don’t worry! You can still follow along with this training and refer to your current clinic’s procedures.

If you don’t have written policies in place yet, now is a great time to get started. Check out our customizable templates to help your healthcare practice stay compliant and protect patient information. Learn more at https://informationmanagers.ca/policy-and-procedure-template/.