It’s Your Call May 2022

Infection Control Alert: The CDC is encouraging physicians to consider adenovirus testing for children with symptoms of Hepatitis of unknown origin. Hepatitis symptoms include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, dark urine, light-colored stools, joint pain, and jaundice. It can also be caused by other viruses. Adenoviruses cause cold-like symptoms, fever, sore throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, diarrhea, and pink eye (conjunctivitis).

Healthcare teams and communities should remain vigilant about washing their hands and avoiding contact with anyone with symptoms.

HIPAA:

Q: Does HIPAA allow a provider to release a patient’s PHI that is not directly related to a claim for workers’ compensation to an employer or insurer even if it is allowed by state law?

A: The healthcare provider may release the PHI only if the patient or their personal representative has signed an authorization that meets the requirements of the HIPAA Privacy Rule.