JuliaHPrePA Posted April 30, 2019 Share Posted April 30, 2019 Hi Everyone, Like many of us, I have included in my personal statement a story about a meaningful patient interaction I have had. As it is now I have used the patient's first name only. In the context of my story this is really not identifying at all and I didn't see this as a potential issue. However, I have recently come across other posts in which others have said to use "the patient" or the patient's initials instead. I don't want to look like I'm ignorant of patient confidentiality and HIPAA to admissions committees. What do you think? Thanks! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Janie55 Posted May 1, 2019 Share Posted May 1, 2019 I wouldn’t use their name or initials. HIPAA has very strict guidelines regarding discussing a patient that could be identified by any name/description. I would use the appropriate pronoun for referring to your patient/situation you are discussing. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Patricia5827 Posted May 1, 2019 Share Posted May 1, 2019 I’ve seen people use patient names in essays that have been accepted, but I agree with the HIPAA thing Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
nichole96 Posted May 1, 2019 Share Posted May 1, 2019 I changed the names in my PS (without indicating they were changed) and had no issues. Ex: Juan became Ramon. I've also seen quotes: "John" was suffering from chronic emphysema. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.