I found this app on the App Store today and was completely disgusted. Here is a description of the app if the above link doesn't work:
"How's My Mom gives assisted-living centers and nursing homes the tools they need to keep family members in constant contact with their relatives.
The How's My Mom iPhone app can be used by workers at care centers to provide biweekly updates on residents. These updates include a photograph, a checklist of activities that the resident participated in that day, as well as health updates and messages to the family member.
Using the How's My Mom iPhone app, a care center worker can easily complete these updates using a single handheld device. How's My Mom takes care of the rest!"
As a CNA, it blows my mind that people would try to stay in contact with their family members through me! I would think that the family member would feel like they are doing a good thing, when in all actuality, the resident is sitting in their room and possibly have not even seen their family in days, weeks, or months.
Not to mention taking pictures! I would not be caught dead taking a picture of a resident with my phone at work.
Wouldn't posting personal health information and pictures be a HIPAA violation?
Let me just say that I did not download this app because I don't have the latest version on my iPhone, so maybe there is some type of password or something to protect it that I don't know about.
You know, this would be a great way to share info among family (especially when some live far away). Crazy if they expect the nurse to do it. It would be nice to have something similar integrated into computer charting where family could find out a limited set of info if they have a code, etc.
How's this any different from all the people that tell me the only way they keep in touch w/family and friends is throug facebook? All the place needs to do is buy one iPhone for the individual who is going to take on the task. How about the activities person? I think it is a nice idea. And for the love of Christ, hipaa doesn't apply if the pt/family sign up, giving de facto permission.
Specializes in 6 yrs LTC, 1 yr MedSurg, Wound Care.
I don't know much about HIPAA other than not sharing information and a few things here and there. Are there any websites that tell what the regulations are?
droider
16 Posts
wow...very weird.