Violation of HIPAA?

[tamisms]

So here is my dilemma: I volunteer at a free clinic. This is a great service to many people and we have over 3000 patients. The clinic director is always there in the office and has a very loud mouth. Today, I had a situation where another person and myself were explaining a medication assistance program to a patient and the director blew up at me and the other person. I tried to explain what we were doing, but she would not listen. When I called the next patient back, she started telling me how she overheard the director telling someone outside her room that she had very bad medical problems and she (director) did not think the patient would make it. THe patient told me she was very upset and that she had beaten cancer twice! I have witnessed the director talking about other patients and their conditions in the hallways, the office, and in the waiting room with no regard for who was around. Is this a violation of HIPAA? It is hard to confront the director about anything because she is so hard headed! The clinic is governed by a board of directors, and I have a way to contact the chairman. THis has been going on for the entire 3 years I have been there. Should I call the chairman?

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

Why have you put up with unethical behavior for 3 years? This is not acceptable!

[curtiv]

shoot a letter to the board... anonymously ... from the perspective of the patient and with what you have heard.

[rjflyn, ASN, RN]

Actually HIPAA rules put you in violation if you know a violation is taking place by not reporting. Most states have whistleblower statues that provide protection as well so, I would report away.