Introduction

Technological advances have evolved so rapidly over the years, so it

is of no surprise that technology has integrated its way into healthcare.

As medicine advances, technology must do the same. It has made

gathering and utilizing information structured and systematic,

especially in the healthcare setting. However, having access to so

much technology comes with risks that may jeopardize the

confidentiality of data and privacy of information. It is important for

healthcare professionals to be cognizant of their roles and actions

when it comes to protecting a patient’s privacy. This paper will outline

how the Health Insurance Potability and Accountability Act (HIPAA),

in combination with other laws, facilitates patient’s privacy in

healthcare. Additionally, a hypothetical scenario will be addressed and

will examine the benefits and disadvantages of using social media in

healthcare.

          HIPAA, Legal and Regulatory

HIPAA was signed into legislation in 1996 by President Clinton to

guarantee the privacy and security of an individual's health

information, decrease healthcare fraud and abuse, and enforce

standards for health information (McGonigle & Mastrain, 2018). This

includes but is not limited to handwritten, electronic, or printed

information, insurance, medical records, and payments. When this act

is violated, consequences in place are held to the highest regard.

Patients rely on medical staff to keep their information protected, as

this too is part of delivering stellar care.……….. Continue