Patient Condition Information

Hospitals and health systems are responsible for protecting the privacy and confidentiality of their patients and patient information. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) mandated regulations that govern privacy standards for health care information. HIPAA regulations specify the purposes for which information may and may not be released without authorization from the patient.

Under this law, individuals entering any Vidant Health facility for any kind of treatment are given an opportunity to "opt in" or "opt out" of the patient directory.

If they "opt in," Vidant Health is allowed to release a "one-word" condition (see below) about a patient's status upon request from the media, but only if the patient's first and last name is provided to the media relations staff.

If they "opt out," or if a patient’s first and last name cannot be provided, no information can be released. In this case, HIPAA will not even allow us to acknowledge that the patient is or was at any Vidant Health facility.

Definitions of Patient Conditions

Undetermined
Patient awaiting physician and assessment.

Good
Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious and comfortable. Indicators are excellent.

Fair
Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious, but may be uncomfortable. Indicators are favorable.

Serious
Vital signs may be unstable and not within normal limits. Patient is acutely ill. Indicators are questionable.

Critical
Vital signs are unstable and not within normal limits. Patient may be unconscious. Indicators are unfavorable.

Media and law enforcement can request patient conditions by calling 252-847-2725.