At Anthem, we deal with confidential patient data. Tell me about a time you followed HIPAA regulations even when it wasn't easy or convenient to do so.
The HIPAA privacy rules are paramount in the health insurance industry. The amount of patient data you have access to is overwhelming. Make sure you can show your understanding of the rules while displaying your integrity in upholding them.
"I was faxing over some patient data to a clinic. I didn't get a confirmation back, so I checked the fax number, and it was not correct and went to the wrong location. I could have just walked away and gone back to my desk, but not knowing who was on the receiving end of that data, I had to report the incident. I felt awful about it, but it was quickly resolved, and if I had said nothing, it could have escalated to a huge fine for the company. I'm an honest person, so I had to tell the truth."
"My neighbor got into a car accident a few weeks ago, and she told me that some of her claims had been denied. She begged me to go to work to see what I could find out. I had to tell her there was no way I could do that, and it was a huge HIPAA violation. I mentioned that she should call our Anthem call center and ask for Lynn, who I knew could help her. I was glad I could give her a person to call who could hopefully address her concerns."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
I have had various situations where family members have reached out to me to discuss their family members' care. In order to discuss such information, the patient has to have listed them on the contact sheet in order to discuss information. It is challenging to explain to family members that I cannot talk with them since the patient has not identified them as an okay person. And sometimes it would be best to get family members involved to help the patient.
Stephanie's Feedback
Great example! I have suggested a slight rewording to this response to improve clarity (see "Revised Answer" box.)
Often, I've encountered situations where a patient's family members have reached out to me to discuss the patient's care. In order to discuss such information, the patient has to have listed those individuals on a contact sheet. It is challenging to explain to family members that I cannot talk with them about the patient's care since the patient has not authorized me to do so, especially when it would be best to get family members involved to help the patient. I follow HIPPA regulations with great precision and care, even when it is not easy to do so.
