HIPAA: “No Pub” or “Do Not Announce” Patients and Social Media

“No Pub” or “Do Not Announce” Patients

When admitted to our hospitals, patients may choose to not to be shown on the public patient roster or computer listing. These are called “No Pub Patients” or “Do Not Announce Patients”. This means that these patients have chosen to have no visitors, mail, phone calls, or flowers.

If a visitor, delivery person, or caller is looking for a “no pub” patient, please state the following: “We are sorry but we don’t have anyone on our list by the name.” You might suggest that the person inquiring checks with a family member. The guest is always welcome to check with a family member.

• If we are unable to verify a room number, the patient is likely on the “no pub” list. Mail or floral items will be returned.

• Failure to protect these “no-pub” or “do not announce” patients can result in a fine to you as an individual as well as the hospital.

Social Media

• Patient privacy and confidentiality laws extend to social media.It is a violation of federal law to post or discuss PHI on social media sites like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok.

• Even if you think you have left out details about a patient in the post, people may be able to figure out who you are talking about.

• Do not take pictures while volunteering (unless authorized) as patients or patient information may be in the picture.

Volunteer Quick Tip

When in doubt, seek it out! Please contact a member of the Volunteer Services team or the department supervisor if you have any questions about information that can or can’t be shared.