Q: Are non-medical organizations bound by HIPPA law?
If say “jim” is exposed to COVID-19 and tells HR can HR tell “jim’s” co-workers that “jim” was exposed to COVID-19 or would that be a HIPPA violation?
A:
It is not legal for an employer to disclose confidential medical information about an employee. The employee would have claims against the employer under a number of laws, possibly including HIPPA. It would depend on the circumstances, clearly just blabbing it to co-workers is not allowed. The proof is going to be in exactly was was disclosed, both by Jim and by the employer. "Exposure" is not usually considered a medical condition, however, in this particular case the law may be a little unclear, given the current social stigma regarding being "exposed."
Justia disclaimers below, incorporated herein.
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
