HIPAA Regulations About Employee Illness or Injury

Many people worry that current or future employers can access medical records regarding injury or illness, according to PrivacyRights.org. Their worry is that this information could hamper their chances of getting a job or being promoted at work. However, HIPAA protects employees' medical records from disclosure to employers in many circumstances.

Employee Health Plans

• Group health plans covering at least 50 people are covered under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act) privacy rules. Individual plans offered by employers are paid for by the company, so claims for treatment may be processed by other employees.

On-Site Healthcare

• Some companies have clinics on-site to help employees with health issues. Information about illness or injury is covered by HIPAA as long as it is transmitted electronically.

Consideration

• Certain circumstances can allow employers to access your medical records according to PrivacyRights.org. Disability, life and workers' compensation insurance companies can collect your health data. Any records your employer needs to be in compliance with laws regarding workplace safety may be accessed as well.