Here is what you can do to protect patient privacy

Although the free exchange of information is a necessary part of patient care, it's important to ensure that data aren't inadvertently shared with the wrong people. To avoid inappropriate disclosure, save patient-specific conversations for private areas, not hospital hallways or elevators. It's also important to take steps to keep case management forms secure, double-check requests for provider-to-provider faxes, and make sure post-discharge requests for information are routed through the health information management department. Case management departments also should have a confidentiality policy that defines how computerized files are maintained to prevent security breaches, how information releases are handled, and other aspects of information management.