About texting..

Specialties Home Health

Published

Up Vote Up Vote ×

The lack of reliability of my cell phone in general, and text messaging (as with other applications) specifically, leads me to doubt this means of conveying my message. I have already dealt with this lack of reliability far too much to be easily convinced that one method is secure and/or accurate for health care purposes.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Texting has worked very well for me and most of my coworkers. My only concern really is HIPAA. We are careful biut according to the above link, there seems to be nothing that you can say on a personal device short of call the office sort of thing.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Pedi.

The link says that JCAHO doesn't want MDs texting orders. I never text MDs, I don't have their personal phone numbers. My work phone belongs to my agency. I text with patients because that's how I can get them to respond to me. I don't see any HIPAA issue with texting a patient and saying "is it ok if I come at 8 tomorrow?"

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Rehab, Psych, Acute care, LTC, HH.

I would not text them but will call their office and leave my cell number so I can take care of orders right away,

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in Vents, Telemetry, Home Care, Home infusion.

HIPAA police have no problem when a facility/agency supplies COMPANY phone that is ENCRYPTED communicating with patients and physicians who are part of your health system + doctors using SAME COMPANY encrypted phones to reply as all is secure.

Putting my Privacy Compliance officer hat, Personal phones a no go -- especially sending for orders and wound care pictures, all part of personal identifiers.!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ICU/CCU, Home Health, Case Management.

You always provide a wealth of information! I applaud you! TY :nurse:

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Add a Comment