Two coders discuss a high-profile patient's diagnosis codes in a crowded hospital elevator. What is the correct assessment?
Select an answer to reveal the explanation.
Short Explanation
Elevators have ears. Talking through a patient's codes in public—even with a coworker—is a disclosure, not shop talk. Save the case review for a private, secure space.
Full Explanation
HIPAA Privacy Rule protections apply to oral disclosures of PHI. Conversations about identifiable patient information in public areas such as elevators constitute impermissible disclosures when bystanders can overhear. Employment in HIM does not create an exception; workforce members must discuss PHI only in appropriate, private settings for job-related purposes.