Privacy protection of health information: Patient rights and pediatrician responsibilities

Pediatricians and pediatric medical and surgical subspecialists should know their legal responsibilities to protect the privacy of identifiable patien t health information. Although paper and electronic medical records have th e same privacy standards, health data that are stored or transmitted electr onically are vulnerable to unique security breaches. This statement describ es the privacy and confidentiality needs and rights of pediatric patients a nd suggests appropriate security strategies to deter unauthorized access an d inappropriate use of patient data. Limitations to physician liability are discussed for transferred data. Any new standards for patient privacy and confidentiality must balance the health needs of the community and the righ ts of the patient without compromising the ability of pediatricians to prov ide quality care.