Get Policy Implications Of Medical Information Systems (Part 5 Of 9). 3

Most hospital rooms are "private" (one patient) or "semi-private" (two patients). Some hospitals have only private rooms. Some hospitals have both, and they may charge more for a private room. That extra charge may not be covered by your insurance.

Summary of Non-LPS Patients' Rights, Non-Deniable A right to privacy, dignity, respect, and humane care. A right to receive treatment for a diagnosed mental disorder that is provided in a method least restrictive of individual liberty and promotes personal independence.

Doctors can share patient information with other doctors provided the disclosure complies with the Privacy Rule – and a BAA is entered into when required – and provided the patient information is not restricted by the patient or subject to HIPAA's authorization requirements.

The guidance from HHS on HIPAA is that physical safeguards to protect PHI must be "reasonable" and "appropriate," she notes. "The guidance also specifically says that the HIPAA privacy rule does not require private rooms nor soundproofing of rooms," she says.

It's not the doctor's decision (unless the patient is immune-compromised and must be alone). Anyone with money can get a private room, at home if nowhere else. In a hospital these decisions are usually made by the hospital's nursing administration.

A private room is likely to be less noisy with less activity than on an open-plan ward. This will be very beneficial when it comes to rest and recuperation after surgery, for example, and will also help you if you have difficulty sleeping.