American Health Information Management Association position statement. Issue: Facsimile transmission of health information

Abstract

Facsimile (fax) machines offer a means of immediate exchange of written health information. However, the use of fax machines opens up avenues for loss of patient privacy if confidential information is misdirected or handled improperly upon receipt. Because of this, AHIMA recommends fax transmission of health information only when the original paper record or mail-delivered copies will not meet the needs of immediate patient care. The sensitive information contained in health records should be transmitted via facsimile only when: (1) urgently needed for patient care or (2) required by a third-party payer for ongoing certification of payment for a hospitalized patient. Routine disclosure of information to insurance companies, attorneys, or other legitimate users should be made through regular mail or messenger service. Unless otherwise prohibited by state law, information transmitted via facsimile is acceptable for inclusion in the patient's health record.