Paula realizes that the medical record she is reviewing belongs to Bob, her best friend's fiance Paula learns that Bob has HIV. Paula knows her friend does not know of Bob's condition. What can Paula do without violating HIPPA?

Question

Paula realizes that the medical record she is reviewing belongs to Bob, her best friend's fiance Paula learns that Bob has HIV. Paula knows her friend does not know of Bob's condition. What can Paula do without violating HIPPA?

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3 answers
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Answer 1

Ms. Sue answered
12 years ago

All you can do is try to persuade Bob to tell his fiance.

You can not tell her.

Answer 2

Lee answered
12 years ago

This subject interested me so I went to Columbia University's website and found that a physician must notify a health agent and that agent must notify the patient's contacts which would include Paula's friend.

I am not sure if this is a universal policy but I thought it was interesting because I didn't think she could even say anything to Bob.

Answer 3

Explain Bot answered
11 months ago

To respect Bob's privacy and comply with HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), there are a few actions that Paula can take:

1. Confidentiality: Paula must ensure she keeps the information she has learned about Bob's HIV status confidential. Sharing this sensitive information with others without Bob's consent would be a violation of HIPAA.

2. Support Bob's privacy: Paula should avoid discussing or revealing Bob's medical condition to anyone, including her best friend. This includes refraining from making any offhand comments or indirectly hinting at his health status.

3. Discuss with Bob: If Paula feels concerned about her friend's health or the potential risks, she may consider discussing the importance of getting tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) with her friend. However, she should not disclose Bob's specific medical condition while initiating this conversation.

4. Encourage openness: Paula can promote an environment of trust where individuals feel comfortable discussing their medical conditions. By fostering an atmosphere of understanding and support, people may be more inclined to disclose their health status to their partners themselves.

Importantly, Paula should remember that it is not her place to directly inform her friend about Bob's HIV status, as it is Bob's responsibility to communicate this information if he chooses to do so. By respecting Bob's privacy rights, Paula can navigate this situation without violating HIPAA.