Rules and Guidelines

Patient Privacy
Patient privacy is a top priority at Health Services hospitals and clinics. In order to protect patient confidentiality within federal privacy guidelines, reporters must be escorted at all times by communications staff when reporting from inside any Health Services hospital or clinic after advance notice and clearance has been given. Members of the news media are not allowed unsupervised access to patient care and patient waiting (lobby) areas in any Health Services hospital or clinic facility, with no exceptions.

Patient Condition Reports

Health Services communications staff will provide general patient condition information within the limitations imposed by the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The patient’s name is required. Please note that the patient has the option to expressly state that he or she does not want information released, including confirmation of his or her presence in the facility. Release of detailed information or information about minors requires the written consent of the parent, guardian, or legal representative.

Patient Consent
Any patient interviewed, videotaped, or photographed within a Health Services hospital or clinic must first sign a Health Services-approved, HIPAA-compliant consent form. The only communications staff is authorized to obtain consent and advance planning is required.

Filming Requests

Health Services facilities may be able to assist with commercial and documentary film project requests if staffing resources are available and the filming does not impede patient access or delivery of care. All filming requests require advance planning as location agreements, liability forms, permits, and other required documentation need to be reviewed and authorized prior to the start of any filming.