Providers can use HIPAA compliant text messaging in an emergency department (ED) to quickly and securely send patient information for better decision-making and care coordination.
HIPAA compliant texting
A study on privacy and confidentiality of emergency department patient information states “Unfortunately, standard mobile networks are not sufficiently secure to protect patient confidentiality.”
The study explains, “Protecting the confidentiality of medical information in the ED is important because many patients present to the ED for treatment of sensitive conditions, such as sexual assault or mental illness.”
So, these providers must use a HIPAA compliant text messaging platform, like Paubox, since “non‐secure text messaging may be inappropriate for communicating about patients, secure text messaging may improve the coordination and efficiency of care.”
Integrating electronic health records (EHRs)
The previous study explains that providers should use their EHRs when texting patients to “improve the reliability and efficiency of communication in the health care setting while safeguarding protected health information (PHI).”
Additionally, using EHRs for texting can also help streamline the documentation process and ensure that all patient interactions are recorded accurately.
Go deeper: What is an electronic health record (EHR)?
Communication during critical situations
In emergency medicine, HIPAA compliant texts provide a quick and direct way for healthcare providers to communicate with each other. For example, a paramedic en route to the hospital with a critical trauma patient can text the ED team about the patient's condition, so they can prepare the necessary resources for immediate intervention upon arrival.
Additionally, HIPAA compliant texts can help providers consult with specialists or seek second opinions quickly, for better decision-making.
Providers can also text information to patients, like appointment reminders, medication instructions, or follow-up care details. For example, a provider can text a discharged ED patient instructions for post-discharge care, including medication schedules and warning signs to watch out for.
Improved patient education
Providers can text informative messages about common medical emergencies, preventive measures, or available resources, to help patients to take control of their health and make informed decisions. For example, a patient experiencing symptoms of a heart attack could have received a text message outlining the signs of a heart attack and advising them to seek immediate medical attention.
Read also: Empowering patients with HIPAA compliant emails and texts
Staff training on HIPAA compliance
A qualitative analysis of team communication with a clinical texting system “Hospitals are increasingly replacing pagers with clinical texting systems that allow users to use smartphones to send messages while maintaining compliance for privacy and security.”
In this study, participants spoke “favorably of texting, [but] there were disagreements regarding appropriate texting practices both within and between the hospitalists and nurses.” More specifically, the study found “A lack of shared understanding regarding when and how to use texting.”
So, provider organizations must train staff on using text messaging in emergency departments while remaining HIPAA compliant. Staff members must be educated on the risks associated with non-compliant texting practices and how to use secure messaging platforms.
Training should cover topics like:
· How to handle emergency situations via HIPAA compliant texts
· Protocols for escalation and response times
· Identifying when to use HIPAA compliant text messaging
· Understanding encryption protocols
FAQs
Should texts in emergency medicine be HIPAA compliant?
Yes, because of the sensitive nature of emergency departments, providers must use a HIPAA compliant texting platform, like Paubox, to ensure the privacy of patients’ protected health information (PHI).
Should texts to patients be HIPAA compliant?
Yes, providers must use a HIPAA compliant texting platform, like Paubox, when texting patients. These secure messaging platforms must offer encryption, implementing two-factor authentication, and using access controls to protect patient privacy.
Can text messaging be used to consult specialists in emergency medicine?
Yes, HIPAA compliant text messaging can be used to consult specialists in emergency medicine, allowing providers to seek expert opinions and advice quickly, leading to better-informed decision-making.
