Patient Identification & Identity Theft Flashcards
6 cards from real CHAA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Patient Identification & Identity Theft flashcards as text
What is an 'overlay' in patient identification, and why is it more dangerous than a duplicate record?
Answer: When two different patients' records are merged into one, mixing their medical histories and creating potential for treatment errors
An overlay combines records of two different patients, creating mixed medical information that can lead to dangerous treatment decisions.
During registration, a patient's ID photo does not clearly match their appearance. What is the appropriate response?
Answer: Politely ask additional verification questions while noting the discrepancy for supervisory review
When visual identification is inconclusive, additional verification steps help confirm identity professionally.
What role does the Emergency Department play in patient identification challenges?
Answer: The ED faces unique challenges including unconscious patients, patients without ID, high volumes, and time pressure increasing misidentification risks
The ED presents unique identification challenges due to the nature of emergency presentations.
How does the Social Security Number factor into patient identification in healthcare?
Answer: While SSN helps verify identity and is needed for certain billing purposes, its use should be limited due to identity theft risks, and patients cannot be denied care for refusing to provide it
SSN serves specific purposes but collection should be limited and protected due to identity theft concerns.
What is the 'birthday rule' in the context of insurance coordination?
Answer: When a dependent child is covered by two parents' plans, the parent whose birthday falls earlier in the calendar year has the primary plan
The birthday rule determines primary insurance for dependent children when both parents have coverage.
What measures should patient access take to protect information on computer screens in public areas?
Answer: Use privacy screens, automatic logoff, screen positioning away from public view, and minimize visible PHI
HIPAA requires reasonable safeguards to protect PHI from incidental disclosure.