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Can I collect health information from participants in Washington? What are the requirements?
Based on the information provided in the context documents, you can collect health information from participants in Washington, but there are requirements that must be followed.
Requirements for Collecting Health Information in Washington State
Washington State has specific regulations regarding the collection of health information. The Washington Administrative Code (WARC) 70.02.270 prohibits the use or disclosure of health care information received from a health care provider or facility in any manner that would violate the requirements of this chapter if performed by the health care provider or health care facility. This means that if you receive health care information for health care education, planning, quality assurance, peer review, or administrative, legal, financial, or actuarial services, you cannot use or disclose any health care information received from the health care provider or health care facility in any manner that would violate the requirements of WARC 70.02.270 [3.1].
Additionally, the Collection, use, and accessibility of health-related data in Washington State is regulated by WARC 43.70.050. This regulation requires that all state agencies which collect or have access to population-based, health-related data allow the secretary access to such data. Private entities, such as insurance companies, health maintenance organizations, and private purchasers are also encouraged to give the secretary access to such data in their possession. The secretary’s access to and use of all data shall be in accordance with state and federal confidentiality laws and ethical guidelines. Such data in any form where the patient or provider of health care can be identified shall not be disclosed, subject to disclosure according to chapter 42.56 RCW, discoverable or admissible in judicial or administrative proceedings. Such data can be used in proceedings in which the use of the data is clearly relevant and necessary and both the department and the patient or provider are parties [2.1].
Conclusion
Based on the information provided in the context documents, you can collect health information from participants in Washington, but you must follow the requirements outlined in WARC 70.02.270 and WARC 43.70.050.
Source(s):
- [2.1] Collection, use, and accessibility of health-related data.
- [3.1] Health care information—Use or disclosure prohibited.
Jurisdiction
Washington