One question that is frequently asked when someone submits a name for the prayer list is whether or not permission from the person has been given. That may seem like a strange request, but it’s because of the HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) which was passed into law in 1996. While most people may only know about this law in regards to listing someone as an emergency contact when they go to the doctor so they can access medical records on that person’s behalf, there is much more to it.
Since it is an issue of privacy and medical records, there are many organizations and companies that must abide by HIPAA as well. This includes churches. Even though the church’s intention is good by praying for someone who is sick, a church is not immune to HIPAA laws.
It is not likely there would be a problem, however, there is a liability to the church. Our prayer list is distributed in print, sent out via email, and prayed aloud during worship and on the video service. In this litigious society, we must make sure to have that consent. And, the consent must be from the person on the list, not a friend or family member. For example, I have my granddaughter on the prayer list. I have asked her if that is OK, and she has said “Yes.” With her consent, I can make sure she is included on the prayer list.
If you have any questions about this, please do not hesitate to speak with Pastor Brian or Carol Savoie. Thank you.
