Healthcare Laws & Ethics Flashcards

What does HIPAA primarily protect?

Answer: Patient health information

HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, is a federal law primarily designed to protect the privacy and security of patient health information (PHI). It sets national standards for how healthcare providers, health plans, and clearinghouses must handle and protect sensitive patient data, ensuring confidentiality and patient rights.

What is informed consent?

Answer: Patient agreement after full disclosure

Informed consent is a fundamental ethical and legal principle requiring that a patient fully understands the nature of a proposed treatment, its risks, benefits, and alternatives before agreeing to it. This ensures patient autonomy over their medical decisions and prevents coercion into procedures they do not fully comprehend.

What is the purpose of a Code of Ethics in healthcare?

Answer: Guide ethical behavior

A Code of Ethics in healthcare provides a set of moral principles and professional standards that guide the conduct of healthcare professionals. It helps ensure that decisions are made with the patient's best interest at heart, promoting integrity, respect, and accountability within the healthcare system.

What is negligence in healthcare?

Answer: Failure to meet care standards

Negligence in healthcare occurs when a healthcare professional fails to exercise the degree of care that a reasonably prudent professional would have under similar circumstances, resulting in harm to the patient. This breach of the standard of care can lead to legal liability and malpractice claims, emphasizing the importance of adhering to professional standards.

What is confidentiality in healthcare?

Answer: Protecting patient information

Confidentiality in healthcare is the ethical and legal obligation to protect a patient's private health information from unauthorized disclosure. Maintaining confidentiality builds trust between patients and providers, encouraging patients to share sensitive information necessary for their care without fear of it being misused or revealed.

What legal document appoints someone to make healthcare decisions if a patient is incapacitated?

Answer: Healthcare power of attorney

A healthcare power of attorney is a legal document that designates a specific person to make medical decisions on behalf of a patient if they become incapacitated and unable to do so themselves. This ensures that a patient's wishes regarding their medical care are respected, even if they cannot communicate them directly.

What is the role of ethics committees in healthcare?

Answer: Review ethical dilemmas

Ethics committees in healthcare facilities are multidisciplinary groups that provide guidance and support in resolving complex ethical dilemmas that arise in patient care. They offer a forum for discussion, education, and policy development to ensure that patient rights and ethical principles are upheld within the institution.

What does patient advocacy involve?

Answer: Supporting patient rights

Patient advocacy involves actively supporting and promoting the rights, needs, and best interests of patients within the healthcare system. Advocates help patients navigate complex medical decisions, understand their treatment options, and ensure their voices are heard, especially when they may be vulnerable or unable to advocate for themselves.

Why is compliance important in healthcare?

Answer: Ensures legal adherence

Compliance in healthcare refers to adhering to all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards governing the industry. This is crucial for preventing legal penalties, maintaining accreditation, ensuring patient safety, and upholding the integrity and trustworthiness of the healthcare system.