Ohio Physical Therapy Jurisprudence Practice Exam

What is the responsibility of a physical therapist regarding patient privacy?

1. They must inform patients of their rights

2. They must comply with HIPAA and protect patient confidentiality

3. They have no responsibility regarding privacy

4. Only protect the privacy of adults

The correct answer is: They must comply with HIPAA and protect patient confidentiality

The responsibility of a physical therapist regarding patient privacy is fundamentally linked to compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), which sets the standard for protecting sensitive patient information. This means that physical therapists are required to ensure the confidentiality of patient data, safeguarding it from unauthorized access and disclosure. Complying with HIPAA involves implementing necessary administrative, physical, and technical safeguards to protect the privacy of all patients, which is crucial for building trust in the provider-patient relationship. Failing to maintain patient confidentiality can lead to both legal repercussions and damage to professional credibility. This focus on compliance encompasses all patients, regardless of age, ensuring that privacy protections apply uniformly. This highlights the importance of understanding the breadth of privacy responsibilities that healthcare providers, including physical therapists, have under federal regulations.