Health information technology (HIT) is a crucial tool for healthcare systems to coordinate care for patients, yet there are privacy concerns unique to people who have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV) and exploitation. With potential impact to a patient’s care utilization and engagement, this is not just an issue of privacy but also one of safety. Included here are guiding principles that should be applied by healthcare providers, administrators, policy makers and developers when designing, building, utilizing or regulating health information systems that will hold or exchange sensitive health information.
Health Partners on IPV + Exploitation. Privacy principles for protecting survivors of intimate partner violence, exploitation and human trafficking in healthcare settings. Futures Without Violence. Available online.
University of San Francisco California