Confidentiality Guidelines for Volunteers

• Ask for, look for, and share only that information needed to do the assigned volunteer role.

• Do not go through the patient census to look for individuals you know. If you see someone you know, please do not to visit them without expressed permission.

• When a volunteer needs to share confidential information, do so in a private place and out of hearing of others. Avoid hallways, elevators, lobbies, cafeteria, etc.

• Always use your own username and password. Do not use another volunteer’s sign in. Never share computer passwords with anyone.

• Keep patient information in a secure and private place that is not accessible to others who do not need to have access.

• If using a patient list, never leave the list on a desk or unattended. The volunteer must keep the list private and turn the identifying patient information face downward or use a cover sheet when it is not being used.

• Properly discard all materials containing PHI by using Shred-All Bins.

• When delivering any item to patients, such as flowers, gifts, or mail, take reasonable steps to make sure the attached label, addressing information or gift card with the patients’ name is not visible to others.

• Do not share information about other volunteers who are hospitalized unless the patient/volunteer has given verbal or written permission to Volunteer Services staff.