In this month's issue, our expert answers questions on color-coded filing systems, sharing information with overseas providers, coordinating research with hospital employees, and more!
Q: A patient presents to the ED seeking treatment for impacted cerumen affecting both ear canals. How would you report a bilateral cerumen removal using CPT codes?
Q: I work in the maternity department of a hospital, and sometimes we get thank-you notes. It a HIPAA violation to post those notes in an employee-only area? They often include patient names and other personal information.
Q: I was recently informed that providers use cellular-based tissue products to treat ulcers when a patient fails to respond to more conservative treatment options. What constitutes a failed response to treatment and how would this be documented?
Q: What information does HIPAA allow to be shared on a health insurance user portal if multiple family members are on the same policy? Should all individuals on the policy have separate user accounts?
