Doctor notes

Sometimes the Dr. will clarify the note, sometimes they will not disclose anything to me referencing HIPAA. Last week was the first time a had a major issue. I received a note that stating a student was only allowed to do "non weight bearing sports". The PE teacher wanted clarification and i left message asking the dr. to clarify what sports was he able to do.

Apparently, the Dr. was not pleased that I was questioning his note. I received a phonecall later that day from mom stating the dr said the note was clear enough and he would not be returning my phone call. A violation of the students privacy rights to ask what his definition of non weight bearing sports is.

If you are not clear regarding what has been written, it is perfectly appropriate and prudent, to contact the physician to get clarification. You have a license to protect regardless of the risk of offending someone. Just be respectful.

Sometimes the Dr. will clarify the note, sometimes they will not disclose anything to me referencing HIPAA. Last week was the first time a had a major issue. I received a note that stating a student was only allowed to do "non weight bearing sports". The PE teacher wanted clarification and i left message asking the dr. to clarify what sports was he able to do.

Apparently, the Dr. was not pleased that I was questioning his note. I received a phonecall later that day from mom stating the dr said the note was clear enough and he would not be returning my phone call. A violation of the students privacy rights to ask what his definition of non weight bearing sports is.

I don't consider it a violation of privacy rights when you are a part of the healthcare team and you are asking a specific question related to order. Not something off topic like, "can you please specify which non weight bearing sports are ok and, oh hey is little Sarah preggers??"

In this situation I would totally call back and ask for a new order with specific sports listed. "Non weight bearing" can easily be misinterpreted. If mom goes psycho on me because yoga is the only nonweight bearing sport they can do then I want back up.

ANY doctor's note to the school, by definition, releases any HIPAA violation. You have now been included in the health care team and you are allowed to know details.