HIPAA: Defer to OCR Privacy Reminder in Age of COVID-19

Why This Topic Matters

It helps healthcare organizations understand how a COVID-19 environment does not remove HIPAA privacy obligations and why patient information controls still matter when media, filming, or public-facing activities are present.

Article Sections

1. Put Patient Privacy First

   Discusses the OCR reminder that privacy protections remain important during the public health emergency and addresses general concerns about patient information in care settings.

2. Understand the Differences Between ‘Consent’ and ‘Authorization’

   Explains the article’s discussion of the general distinction between routine patient permission for care and a separate written authorization used for other disclosures.

3. Here’s the Reason the Feds Offered Extra Guidance

   Covers the broader reason OCR revisited privacy guidance during the pandemic and describes the types of facility situations that raised concern.

4. Include ‘Core Elements’ in Your Authorization Form

   Summarizes the article’s discussion of authorization form content and the general categories of information that must be included.