CINCINNATI — “First, when HIPAA was initiated patient’s could sign a release to allow medical personnel the right to share information to give better quality patient care and establish community support systems for emotional needs to be met.
Second, the American Nurses Association acknowledge the need for good communication to give excellent patient care, as stated in the ANA principle “Clear, accurate documentation is an essential element of safe, quality, evidence – based nursing practice” Ohio SB 315 does more than gag medical personnel it ties medical staff’s hands.
Third, Ohio SB 315 goes totally counter to the American Bill of Rights as well as the Ohio State Constitution Bill of Rights. Freedom of Speech is protected under Section 11 of the Ohio Bill of Rights “Stating” Every citizen may freely speak, write, and publish his sentiments on all subjects, being responsible for the abuse of the right; and no law shall be passed to restrain or abridge the liberty of speech, or of the press. In all criminal prosecution for libel, the truth may be given in evidence to the jury, and if it shall appear to the jury that the matter charged as libelous is true, and was published with good motives, and for justifiable end, the party shall be acquitted.”
— Christine Bruce RN, letter to the editor, Cincinnati Enquirer
