Title: Introduction to Health Law
Course: HIM 2012 Health Law > Section: Module 1 - Introduction to Health Law

Introduction

Health Information Management professionals must understand the legislative process in the United States.  Laws and regulations impact healthcare and health information management.  The patient record is the legal business record for care provided by the health care facility or provider, the HIM professional may become involved in legal proceedings related to patient’s care.   Attorneys, government agencies and other interested parties frequently request information from health records for legal purposes.

Laws and standards define how healthcare is delivered, financed and reimbursed.  Laws protect consumers and providers by requiring  accountability for services provided. In addition, laws define  and require accountability for privacy, confidentiality and security of health information.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to
- Define privacy, confidentiality, and security
- Discuss ownership of the health record and control over the use of information within the health record
- Discuss the role and responsibilities of the custodian of health records and who may serve in the role of custodian

Readings & Resources

Required reading:  Brodnik, Melanie.  Fundamentals of Law for Health Informatics and Information Management.  AHIMA Press.  Current edition. (Chapter 1, Chapter 2)

Optional:  Pozgar, George.  Legal Aspects of Health Care Administration.  Jones and Bartlett Learning.  Current edition.  (Chapter 2)
American Society of Law, Medicine and Ethics
American Health Information Management Association
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society
American Medical Informatics Association

Assignments and Activities

- Take the Student Contract "Quiz"

- Post in the Greetings and Introductions Discussion Board
- Read Chp. 1 and Chp. 2 in the Brodnik text
- Take the Module 1 Quiz
- Post on the Module 1 Discussion Board
- Post the Module 1 Internet Activity
- Begin creating your Health Law Electronic Portfolio.  Rubric and instructions for the Health Law Electronic Portfolio are located in the Syllabus.